A series of nuisance Triple Zero calls made in the early hours of Sunday morning could have put lives at risk, police say.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Police say a 36-year-old O'Connor man made 11 nuisance calls early to the emergency line on Sunday morning, prompting officers to visit his home about 3.30am.
The man allegedly admitted responsibility and received a caution.
But police say they had to return a short time later and arrest the man after he made further nuisance calls.
He has been charged with improper use of an emergency call service, and is expected to face the ACT Magistrates Court next month.
READ MORE:
Superintendent Rohan Smith, of ACT Policing Operations, said the incident should remind the public that nuisance calls to Triple Zero could put lives at risk.
"It should be obvious enough that the Triple Zero emergency line is for emergencies only, and people can face severe penalties for making nuisance calls to this line," Superintendent Smith said.
"Unnecessary and nuisance calls can place undue strain on the system and police call-takers, meaning that genuine emergencies may not be responded to in a timely fashion."
People convicted of the improper use of an emergency call service can be sentenced to up to three years in jail.
To report a crime that does not involve an emergency or life-threatening situation in the ACT, people should call ACT Policing Operations on 131 444. Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.