By Gavin McInally
Paisley Daily Express
EDINBURGH, Scotland — Twisted hoax callers who put lives in danger have been warned their malicious stunts could leave them in jail.
The Solicitor General, Frank Mulholland QC, made the stark warning last night as emergency services are stretched to capacity during the winter season.
Updated guidance will be issued to prosecutors across Scotland in favour of prosecution of those who make false alarm calls to the police, fire or ambulance services.
Mr Mulholland said the updated guidance strengthens the approach to the prosecution of offenders who make hoax 999 calls.
He added: “Even at the best of times, hoax callers distract vital attention away from emergency services trying to help those in lifethreatening situations.
“At a time of severe weather, when the emergency services are hardpressed to reach communities across Scotland, hoax 999 callers may pose even more of a threat to those in dire need of their assistance.”
Mr Mulholland believes those who make such calls should be aware that, if convicted, they could face a prison sentence.
He said: “Make no mistake, it is a criminal offence to make hoax calls to the emergency services, and where there is sufficient evidence, there is a strong presumption in favour of prosecuting.
“If convicted, the courts have the powers to impose a sentence of imprisonment.
“When people’s lives depend on these precious resources, hoax calls are no laughing matter.”
Fergus Ewing, Minister for Community Safety, added: “This is a welcome and important step in the fight to make it clear that hoax calls are not a victimless prank.
“A hoax call to our emergency services can waste vital time and cost lives: it is only right perpetrators face the full force of the law for their actions.
“The long term trend shows that numbers of hoax calls made are coming down, which suggests more potential hoax callers are understanding the severity of the crime. But tougher enforcement of our laws by the police, prosecutors and the courts against those responsible for putting lives in danger is a measure that has the Scottish Government’s full support.”
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