Bonnybridge man fined after pestering police over confiscated phone

A man who pestered police with calls about his confiscated phone has been heavily fined.
By Herald Reporter
Published 21st Sep 2020, 16:45 BST
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Steven Anderson (46) shouted and swore at a call handler and refused to provide relevant information.

Anderson, 8 Hunter Gardens, Bonnybridge, appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court last Thursday having pled guilty to dialling 101 on November 30, 2019 and repeatedly refusing to give details as to his reason for calling.

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Procurator fiscal depute Rachel Wallace said: “The handler repeatedly asked for his details, however, he refused to provide any more information about his phone or how she could help him.

Steven Anderson, of Bonnybridge, was fined after he pestered police with calls over a confiscated mobile phone. Picture: Michael Gillen.Steven Anderson, of Bonnybridge, was fined after he pestered police with calls over a confiscated mobile phone. Picture: Michael Gillen.
Steven Anderson, of Bonnybridge, was fined after he pestered police with calls over a confiscated mobile phone. Picture: Michael Gillen.

“He became extremely argumentative. The call taker said she was unable to help him without any information.

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“The accused began to shout and swear and was advised to stop or the call would be terminated. He was advised the call was being terminated.

“A short time later he called 101 and again displayed the same behaviour.”

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Police identified Anderson as the call maker and charged him at his home.

Defence solicitor William McIntyre said: “His actions are borne out of having a bit too much to drink and also frustration.

“His phone had been taken from him in 2018 in relation to a matter disposed of by the police in February 2019. He’s still paying a fairly hefty monthly contract fee.”

Sheriff Keith O’Mahoney fined Anderson £540 over his third conviction for such an offence and said he faced “more serious consequences” if his behaviour continued.

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