Man sentenced after making over 200 hoax emergency calls in seven months
Persistent misuse of 999 system led to threats against call handlers and wasted vital police resources
A 37-year-old man has been sentenced after making more than 200 non-emergency calls to police over a seven-month period, repeatedly abusing and threatening call handlers.
Charlie Murphy began the pattern of calls on 8 June 2025, dialing 999 without ever reporting a genuine emergency. Instead, each call disrupted police operations and risked delaying assistance to people in real need.
During the calls, Murphy frequently swore at and intimidated staff, even as they attempted to check on his welfare. On average, he contacted police more than once a day, with spikes in October and December when he made close to 50 calls in each month.
Murphy, of Salt Marsh Road in Shoreham, was identified as the caller and arrested on 19 January. He was charged the same day with persistently using a public communication network to cause annoyance, inconvenience, or anxiety.
Despite being released on conditional bail, he continued contacting police, making nearly 70 additional calls between January and February.
He first appeared at Worthing Magistrates’ Court on 3 March, where he pleaded not guilty. However, at a subsequent hearing on 14 April, Murphy changed his plea to guilty and was sentenced immediately.
The court imposed a two-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), banning him from calling any emergency number unless there is a legitimate and urgent 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.
"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 (FCCCD) 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."