Woman from Morecambe charged after repeated abusive calls to 999

A woman from Morecambe has been arrested and charged after emergency services received repeated abusive 999 calls.

The woman was arrested on suspicion of improper use of public communications network after continuous calls were made to 999 in a non-emergency, the caller repeatedly swearing and showing abusive and threatening behaviour towards call handlers.

She has since been charged with using the public communication network in an offensive manner, and is due to appear at Preston Magistrates on December 28.

Police have reminded people that calling 999 for matters that are not an emergency, and abusive behaviour towards call operators will not be tolerated.

“Our control room staff work incredibly hard, taking calls and helping protect our communities," said Chief Superintendent Karen Edwards, Divisional Commander for West Division of Lancashire Police.

"We need our emergency phone lines available for those who genuinely and urgently require police assistance.

“My message is clear - anyone thinking of wasting police time could find themselves at risk of criminal proceedings. We will be there to help those in genuine need of help, but if you are thinking of intentionally wasting police time then we will take appropriate action.”

During 2022, staff who take emergency calls saw around 2,000 calls that were hoaxes.

If you need to call police in an emergency – where a crime is in progress or there is a threat to life – ring 999.

You can find out what classes as an emergency, and when to call 999, here.