SPOKANE VALLEY, WA — A 45-year-old woman, referred to as “Jane Doe” by authorities, was arrested on April 13, 2025, for repeatedly misusing the 911 emergency text system after sending more than 300 messages in less than three hours.

Deputies with the Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Office first responded at approximately 8:05 a.m. to an apartment in the 2300 block of N. Wilbur Road, where “Doe” had been texting 911 with messages that included profanities and claims of being hungry. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the woman, who admitted she texted about harming herself to elicit a law enforcement response. Since she was not deemed a threat to herself or others, deputies provided her with local resource information and warned her not to misuse the 911 system.

Less than an hour later, deputies returned to the apartment after being notified that the woman continued sending messages to 911. She allegedly told them she believed the call takers were artificial intelligence and that she had the right to text as she pleased. Deputies issued another warning, emphasizing that further misuse could result in arrest.

By 10:52 a.m., “Doe” had sent an additional 90 messages within 40 minutes. In total, she is accused of sending over 300 messages in approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes. After consulting with the Spokane Police Department due to the jurisdiction of the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications center, deputies determined probable cause and arrested her for Abuse of 911 Emergency Reporting Systems.

She was booked into the Spokane County Jail. The Sheriff’s Office noted the woman’s identity is being withheld due to possible mental health considerations. The case will be referred to mental health services in hopes of connecting her with appropriate support.

Authorities remind the public that misuse of 911 services is a criminal offense and can interfere with emergency response to legitimate calls.