Texas Man Arrested After Calling 911 Five Times in One Hour Asking for a Ride to His Girlfriend’s House

LAREDO, Texas — A Texas man has been arrested after allegedly calling 911 five times within a single hour to ask dispatchers for a ride to his girlfriend’s house, saying he was “worried about her.” According to police, the repeated emergency calls not only tied up emergency lines but also prompted officers to respond directly to his residence — where they say he appeared highly intoxicated.

Police Respond to Repeated 911 Calls

The Laredo Police Department confirmed that the incident occurred on November 4, when dispatchers received multiple 911 calls from the same individual — later identified as Marquez-Acosta — within a short span of time.

Each time, the man reportedly insisted that he needed help getting to his girlfriend’s home because he was concerned for her safety. Despite being informed that 911 services are strictly for emergencies, he continued calling repeatedly.

“He called five separate times within an hour, asking officers to pick him up and take him to his girlfriend’s house,” a police spokesperson said. “He was told several times that this was not an emergency and that misuse of 911 is a criminal offense.”

After the fifth call, officers were dispatched to his residence to check on his welfare and to address the ongoing misuse of emergency lines.

Officers Found the Man Intoxicated

When officers arrived at the man’s Laredo home, they noted that he appeared intoxicated and disoriented, though not in immediate danger. Police say there was no evidence of any actual emergency involving his girlfriend at that time.

Authorities explained that while they often respond to welfare checks stemming from unusual 911 calls, this particular case stood out because of how persistent and unnecessary the calls were.

“We understand people get worried about loved ones, but 911 is reserved for life-threatening situations,” police said. “Tying up emergency lines for non-urgent matters delays responses to people who truly need help.”

Charged for Abusive 911 Calls

Marquez-Acosta was taken into custody and charged with making abusive calls to 911, which is a Class B misdemeanor under Texas law.

The charge applies to anyone who repeatedly places emergency calls without a legitimate need for emergency response. The offense can carry penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000, depending on the circumstances and prior offenses.

Police added that this case serves as a reminder that improper use of emergency services — even when intentions aren’t malicious — can have serious legal consequences.

911 Misuse a Growing Concern Across the U.S.

Law enforcement officials nationwide have reported an increase in non-emergency 911 calls, often from individuals who are intoxicated, lonely, or confused about how the system works. Some departments say they receive thousands of misuse calls every year — ranging from people asking for rides or restaurant recommendations to others reporting trivial disputes.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) notes that such misuse can delay response times for real emergencies and strain already limited resources.

In Laredo’s case, dispatchers reportedly handled several other high-priority calls for medical and police assistance during the same hour that Marquez-Acosta kept phoning.

“Even if you’re anxious or upset, it’s critical to call 911 only for emergencies,” said a local emergency operator. “Every unnecessary call risks another person’s life.”

Public Reminder: What Counts as a 911 Emergency

Authorities reiterated that 911 should be used only for:

• Medical emergencies such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or serious injury
• Active crimes in progress or immediate threats to safety
• Fires, car accidents, or hazardous situations

For welfare checks or transportation requests, officials advise residents to contact non-emergency police numbers or local taxi/rideshare services instead.

Community Response

The incident quickly gained attention on social media after local outlets posted about it, with residents sharing mixed reactions — some finding humor in the man’s intoxicated persistence, while others expressed frustration at the misuse of emergency resources.

“You can’t call 911 for a ride to your girlfriend’s house,” one commenter wrote. “That’s not how it works, man.”
Another added, “People are out here risking their freedom for love — or tequila.”

What Happens Next

Marquez-Acosta has since been released on bond while awaiting a court hearing. Police say no further incidents have been reported involving him or his girlfriend since his arrest.

Officials also confirmed that the case remains open pending court review, and they hope it serves as a warning to others about the consequences of abusing emergency lines.

What do you think — should misuse of 911 for non-emergencies like this be treated more seriously, or do first-time offenders deserve leniency? Share your thoughts and join the discussion at NapervilleLocal.com.