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Neighbor News

Calling on a swerving car turns into feeling disrespected by Crystal Lake dispatcher

Calling non-emergency number due to a reckless driver and not being helped

On March 17th, 2017 at 5 pm my husband and myself were driving behind a car on Crystal Lake Avenue who was swerving everywhere. We were behind them in McHenry and we were heading into Crystal Lake. There have been a few accidents on that road and recently a drunk driving accident, so I wanted to do my due diligence and report it. As a passenger, it was scary because he was all over the road. I called the Crystal Lake non-emergency number because we were driving into Crystal Lake. I was transferred to Crystal Lake Police and Fire Dispatch. I explained what was going on and how I wanted to report the reckless driver on this day where many people drink too much and think it is okay to drive. I had the make, model, and license plate number of the car. The dispatcher on the phone seemed annoyed that I had called. I understand that they have an important job, but I felt like this was an important call. I made sure to call the non-emergency number. While on the phone, he continues to ask if I would like to meet with an officer. I repeated myself and said I was calling to report it because this man was obviously drunk and a danger to drivers on the road. He continues to ask if I want to come in and speak to an officer. I felt very disrespected. Of course I don't want to come in and meet with an officer, this car will be gone. I was completely confused. I was very disappointed that on a day of people going out and drinking that a call like this would be taken so lightly. It was as if I was doing a disservice in calling. I felt like this was important for me to bring attention to. Doing something right, turned into me feeling disrespected and it seemed like a waste of my time.

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