Persistent 999 caller given Asbo

Ruth Ryan is banned from entering about 70 premises in Eastbourne

A woman who rang emergency services more than 100 times when she was drunk to ask for a lift home has been given an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo).

Sussex Police said Ruth Ryan, 36, from Eastbourne, became a drain on their resources by persistently abusing the 999 system in her home town.

Pc Ginny Jupp, an anti-social behaviour officer, said she also verbally abused and threatened staff at pubs and clubs.

Under the three-year Asbo, Ryan can only call 999 in a genuine emergency.

Abusive behaviour

She is also banned from entering about 70 premises which are members of the Eastbourne Business Crime Group (EBCG), and she is banned from being drunk in public in East and West Sussex.

In addition, the Asbo, issued by a judge sitting at Hastings Magistrates' Court, prevents her from carrying an open or sealed can, bottle or container in public in Sussex, and from causing a nuisance to others.

Pc Jupp said: "Ryan's persistent abusive behaviour towards members of staff working within the night-time economy and her abuse of the 999 system will not be tolerated.

"The stringent conditions placed on her by the courts are an example to others of what will happen should they decide to participate in such behaviour."