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.
Former Lancaster antiques centre revamp gets go-ahead
Controversial new housing plans near Lancaster given thumbs up
LISTEN: Plans revealed for 'permanent seasonal' Lancaster On Ice
Morecambe woman charged with murder following death of eight-week-old baby
Rescue after person stuck in mud in Lancaster
Hundreds expected at Eden Project Morecambe 'breaking ground ceremony'
Morecambe children's nursery announces plans to close during extreme heat
Lancaster MP responds to Sir Keir Starmer's resignation as Prime Minister
Carnforth High School praised as a "caring community" in Ofsted report
Body of man found in Lancaster park
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Armed Forces weekend will return after massive crowds enjoy biggest ever event
Morecambe MP says Sir Keir Starmer "has made right decision" as Prime Minister resigns
Limited edition artwork will raise vital funds for Lancaster community group
Green Heritage Plaque marks first home of Lancaster University
New home revealed for £20m Morecambe West End regeneration scheme
Wooden nests take flight in Lancaster and Morecambe to stop decline of endangered birds
Veterans salute as Armed Forces Day flag raised at start of celebration weekend in Morecambe
Vandals cause delays to aqueduct sinkhole repairs in Lancaster
Extra Care scheme to open in Lancaster
Three people taken to hospital after road traffic collision in Morecambe
