We have all been taught to call 911 when there is an emergency. Have you thought about what would happen when you call 911? Especially to report an incident where you are involved.
DID YOU KNOW THAT WHEN YOU CALL 911…
When you call 911 did you know that the call is being recording even before you pick up the phone? The call is being recorded as the phone is ringing and you are waiting for the operator to answer. Even if you say anything while waiting for the operator to answer that can be used against you. The 911 calls are admissible in court, so be mindful of what you say while on the phone with the 911 operator.
The 911 operator will ask lots of questions. The 911 operators are trained to get information from you and will try to keep you on the phone until the police arrive. They will also advise you that the police are coming and give you advice on what to do. Please make sure you are in a safe place when you call 911.
ARE YOU PREPARED TO MAKE A STATEMENT TO A 911 OPERATOR?
If you have just used lethal force to protect yourself you may be in a state of panic. You may not be able to think clearly. Adrenaline is running high in your system and your body is probably going to have a reaction, such as your hands may become shaky, you may not be able to remember what just happened (even though it just happened moments before), you may even have distortions of memory among other things. With these types of things going on is this the right time to tell a 911 operator what you believe just happened?
You should give the least amount of information you can. Such as the WHAT (“There has been an incident”) and the WHERE (“123 Main Street”). Things such as I shot, or I was defending myself are admissions to you committing the action even though you may have a justifiable legal defense. The quicker you can get off the phone and contact your attorney (or the Emergency Hotline if you are an FLP Member) the quicker you can have legal representation. This is your first interaction with the Government and whatever you say can and will be used against you to prosecute a case against you.
THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN CALLING 911
• Your phone call is being recorded as soon as the phone rings (even before the operator picks up the phone).
• Give the least amount of information as possible to get help to your location.
• Get off the phone as quickly as possible and contact your Attorney.
• If you are a member of Firearms Legal Protection call the Emergency Hotline as soon as you can so we can dispatch an attorney to you if needed.
