Spotsylvania County, VA – Residents in Spotsylvania County may notice a few extra questions when calling 911 for police emergencies starting today, November 12, 2025. The county’s Emergency Communications Center has implemented a new Police Priority Dispatch System (PPDS®) designed to improve accuracy, consistency, and safety during emergency calls.
According to the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, dispatchers are now following internationally recognized protocols developed by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED™). These standards guide call-takers through structured questions to determine what’s happening, where, and how best to respond.
“As soon as the dispatcher confirms your location and main problem — what we call the Chief Complaint — officers are being dispatched immediately,” said Captain Timothy Bryner. “The new system ensures responders have the best possible information while help is on the way.”
Communications Manager Jenni Mastin-Heywood added that the system gives dispatchers the structure needed to manage any situation with professionalism and consistency, regardless of their experience level.
County officials emphasized that this update will not delay response times. Instead, it enhances both citizen and officer safety by ensuring accurate communication from the first moments of an emergency.
The Sheriff’s Office also extended thanks to Coordinator Melissa Lindsey and the Public Safety IS Team for partnering with IAED to implement the new system.
Residents are encouraged to remain patient if asked additional questions when calling 911 — it’s part of ensuring the right help arrives fast and prepared.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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