Communications Unit

Communications staff looking at several active computer monitors

The Communications Center is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by Communications Officers, also known as Dispatchers.

Non-Emergency Calls

For non-emergency calls, you can contact 714-573-3225.

Emergencies

Dial 911 in case of an emergency and make sure to give your location, especially if calling from a cell phone.

Call Volume

The Center handles approximately 100,000 calls annually, and approximately 25,000 of them are 911 calls. The Tustin Police Department is the primary public safety answering point for the City of Tustin. This means every 911 call originating in the City of Tustin is answered by Tustin Police Department Communications.

Dispatcher Responsibilities

Dispatchers are the first, and sometimes only, contact the public will ever have with the Police Department. Tustin Police Department Dispatchers:

  • Must be able to handle several tasks at once and deal with people who are in moments of need and distress.
  • Are trained to gather information from the caller, remain calm, and send the appropriate assistance to the caller's location.
  • Keep track of all units in the field and monitor multiple radio frequencies.

Training

Our Communications Officers undergo a rigorous training program which includes a 120 hour “Dispatch Academy” required by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. Communications Officers are the only civilian employees required to complete 24 hours of Continuing Professional Training every two years. This keeps the staff updated on the latest technology and best practices.

AlertOC System

The Communications Center utilizes the AlertOC system during critical incidents to notify the community of potential hazards or important information.

Partner of National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Tustin Police Communications is one of the only dispatch centers in the State of California recognized as a national partner by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. All communications staff are required to complete a comprehensive training class on best practices for handling calls related to missing or exploited children.