Will people be less safe when Stanislaus deputies dispatched from 911 calls jot down addresses of people needing help with pen and paper instead of using computers?
That low-tech scenario, evoked numerous times in an ongoing high-level rift between Sheriff Jeff Dirkse and other Stanislaus County leaders, could become reality Sept. 22. The yearslong dispute has revolved around which software dispatchers should use to communicate with first responders in law enforcement and firefighting. City and county leaders have been preparing for one system, while Dirkse has refused to implement it for his deputies.
In an interview with The Modesto Focus, the sheriff said he’s been holding an ace that could change things…