BONNERS FERRY, ID — The Boundary County Sheriff’s Office has announced new measures to address ongoing misuse of its non-emergency dispatch line. Over recent days, the dispatch center has received approximately 100 abusive calls, including threats, profanity, and derogatory language directed at dispatchers and law enforcement personnel.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, these calls have disrupted normal operations and hampered the agency’s ability to respond to legitimate emergency and non-emergency calls. Many of the calls have originated from blocked numbers, making it difficult to identify those responsible. The department also noted that many of the calls appear to have come from outside the local area and even from out of state.

In response, the Sheriff’s Office has enacted a policy that will block incoming calls from restricted or blocked numbers on the non-emergency line. Callers are now required to use identifiable numbers when contacting dispatch.

Sheriff Travis Stolley stated, “Our dispatchers work tirelessly to serve the public, and this behavior is unacceptable. We ask for the community’s cooperation in keeping our non-emergency line clear for those who need assistance.”

The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the non-emergency line is meant for reporting non-life-threatening incidents, general information requests, or contacting the office for routine matters. Residents are reminded to call 911 for emergencies.

The department is actively investigating the incidents and stated that legal action will be pursued against those responsible for the harassment. Anyone with information about the abusive calls is encouraged to contact the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office at (208) 267-3151.

The Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation for the community’s understanding and support as it works to ensure the dispatch system remains available for those who need assistance.