Man Charged with Misuse of 911 After Requesting Ambulance for Non-Emergency

A Lawrence County man is facing charges after allegedly misusing emergency services by calling 911 without a valid medical need.

Authorities received a phone call from Ronald Holt on July 18, during which he claimed he wanted to press charges against his mother and brother for alleged criminal activity, including harassment and illegal drug activity. Holt was advised that he would need to go to the courthouse to sign a criminal summons in order to proceed. He became upset and hung up.

Earlier that same day, Holt had received similar information, including options for county transportation services that could assist him in getting to the courthouse. He also mentioned previous injuries but declined emergency medical services, saying he didn’t want to be charged for the response.

Shortly after the call, Holt contacted 911 and requested an ambulance, claiming he needed a checkup for a head injury. When deputies and EMS arrived, Holt was found sitting on his front porch eating and behaving normally. He was informed that he would be taken for medical evaluation, which he objected to, stating that the hospital would not help him. He ultimately agreed to go with EMS.

Officials determined that Holt was not experiencing a medical emergency and was using EMS as a way to get transportation. A warrant for misuse of 911 was issued. Holt was dropped off at an emergency room at 11:48 a.m. but walked out before 1:25 p.m., when he was picked up by law enforcement near Pulaski Street and South Locust.

The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that 911 is for emergencies only, and misuse of the system is a criminal offense.