Lancing family's 45-minute wait after nine 999 calls
A MAN who was being threatened by a gang of youths says he had to dial 999 nine times before police turned up – 45 minutes later.
James Ingall claims he and his family were under siege by a gang armed with knives and stones, outside his home in Tristram Close, Sompting.
He said: "My son, Darrell, has been bullied and initimidated by these youths before.
"Then they turned up outside my house and I dialled 999 for the police.
"I then waited for them to turn up and then I rang again and again.
Neighbours called
"My neighbours also rang 999 – between us it amounted to nine calls.
"I was really frightened.
"When the officers did turn up with blue lights flashing – the youths ran off.
"I was pretty angry about the delay, and was told that my first 999 call and not been graded high enough to warrant an immediate response.
Serious situation
"It only takes a few seconds to stab someone.
"I can't believe I wasn't taken seriously.
"It was my son's 18th birthday two days later and my wife was too scared to leave the house."
Mr Ingall admitted that he had been convicted of assaulting one of the youths previously.
However, he claimed he had been trying to defend his son who was being hit with an iron bar.
Police investigating
Adur police Chief Inspector James Asser said: "The case is still being investigated and we will deal robustly with any offences that have taken place.
"I will be inviting Mr Ingall to come and see me personally to speak him about his concerns."
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Sunday 12 February 2012
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