Memphis Police Arrested Woman for Fake 911 Calls
The suspect allegedly staged hostage situations and vandalized vehicles on September 5, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Property Crime
On September 5, 2026, Memphis authorities arrested 26-year-old Dakeria Gardner for a series of fraudulent 911 calls. Gardner allegedly impersonated a victim to report fake violent crimes and hostage situations while also damaging property.
Why it matters
The incidents were part of a pattern involving an attempt to lure armed officers to the residence of Gardner's former partner. This behavior created significant public safety risks by diverting emergency resources away from legitimate crises.
Dakeria Gardner faces multiple criminal charges, including impersonation, stalking, and vandalism. The investigation was initiated following seven prior domestic violence reports involving the suspect and the same victim.
The players
Dakeria Gardner
She is a 26-year-old suspect charged with criminal impersonation, stalking, and harassment in connection to fraudulent emergency calls.
Jerrica Spencer
She is a 30-year-old victim whose identity was impersonated during the emergency calls and whose vehicle was targeted for vandalism.
Cortez Brown
He is the former boyfriend of the suspect who was the target of the false reports and is protected by active bail conditions.
Memphis Police Department
The local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the 911 calls and executing the arrest of the suspect.
The details
Detectives identified Gardner through voice matching and phone records after she allegedly placed several false emergency reports. She also allegedly caused $3,700 in total damages to two vehicles and was found in violation of bail conditions that barred her from contacting Cortez Brown.
Timeline
August 4, 2026: A prior incident involving vehicle damage occurred.
September 5, 2026, 12:27 a.m.: The first fake 911 call was received.
September 5, 2026, 9:55 a.m.: The final fake 911 call and vehicle vandalism took place.
Legal Context
This case follows the enforcement of Tennessee criminal statutes regarding the false reporting of a crime. It reflects a growing effort by municipal authorities to curb the misuse of emergency services as a tactic for domestic intimidation.
Local residents on Chippewa Road may notice increased police awareness regarding suspicious activity linked to this investigation. The case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for misusing public safety resources.
The takeaway
Misusing 911 for personal vendettas results in severe felony charges and jeopardizes the safety of the entire community. Authorities maintain a zero-tolerance policy for those who attempt to weaponize law enforcement responses.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest Property Crime trends reported in the Memphis area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Actionnews5.
