A man who called 999 more than 200 times “harassed and berated police call handlers”.
Charlie Murphy, 37, made the calls over a seven-month period, swearing and threatening call handlers as “they made attempts to ensure he was safe”.
He averaged more than one call a day, with high volumes in October and December when he made nearly 50 calls each month.
Murphy, of Salt Marsh Road in Shoreham, was arrested on January 19.
He was charged the same day with persistently making use of a public communication network to cause annoyance, inconvenience or anxiety.
Charlie Murphy (Image: Sussex Police)
After being conditionally bailed, Murphy continued to contact police, making nearly 70 calls between January and February.
He appeared at Worthing Magistrates’ Court on March 3 and denied the charges.
Following a further hearing at Worthing Magistrates’ Court on April 14, Murphy changed his plea to guilty and was sentenced the same day.
He received a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), prohibiting him from calling any emergency phone number unless there is a genuine need.
Leading the investigation, Laura Herbert-Price said: “Over 200 calls were made to police, all either abusive or entirely fabricated, resulting in considerable time and resources spent both dealing with Murphy and in preparing material for the Crown Prosecution Service.
“This behaviour cannot be tolerated and directly impacts our ability to respond to those genuinely in need of critical services.
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“Following tireless efforts, the courts have now issued Murphy with a Criminal Behaviour Order, ensuring he is held accountable for his actions.”
The force contact, command and control department demand coordinator Sarah-Louise Gliddon said: “Call handlers are there to support you when you need help most. They work around the clock to protect the public and play a vital role in responding to emergencies.
“They deserve to be treated with respect and should never be subjected to abuse of any kind.
“Anyone found deliberately wasting police time will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken.
“In a genuine emergency, always dial 999.