Fired 911 Dispatcher To Appeal Dismissal

(WSB Radio) She's accused of botching a 911 call that led to a woman's death. Now, Gina Conteh wants her job back.

Conteh's attorney confirms he has filed an appeal of her dismissal, in the wake of the mistake that contributed to the death of a Johns Creek woman. Darlene Dukes called the Fulton County 911 center on August 2, complaining of breathing problems. She told Conteh, who was working as a dispatcher, that she lived on Wales Street. But Conteh sent EMT's to Wells Street, in Atlanta, instead.

It took almost 30 minutes for police to get to Dukes' home. But Conteh had not dispatched an ambulance, and it took another 30 minutes for EMT's to arrive. By that time the mother of two had died. Conteh was fired after 12 years at the 911 center on August 6.

Conteh's attorney, Rory Starkey, says his client has filed a formal notice of appeal, challenging the decision to fire her. This week, Conteh's employment history came to light, showing repeated transgressions in the past.

Twice before supervisors had tried to fire her, and both times failed when Conteh appealed.
She has been suspended at least seven times, for insubordination, fighting with co-workers, showing up late for work, and falling asleep on the job.

In one incident, supervisors say Conteh fell asleep at her desk and fell out of her chair. But she claimed she was leaning over to pick up some paper when she tumbled out of her chair, scraping her ear. She filed a worker's compensation claim for her injury. Supervisors say they never believed her story.

Under county rules, Conteh is entitled to an appeal of her termination. No date for a hearing has been set.