Why A Dixmont Resident Called 911 For Beer On A Sunday

According to an article on the WGME website, a Dixmont man is facing several charges after police say he repeatedly called 911 asking deputies to bring him beer and later became involved in a physical struggle with officers.

According to court records, 45-year-old Vernus Mayhew is charged in Newport District Court with assault, misuse of the E911 system, and refusing to submit to arrest.

Authorities say the incident happened Sunday evening after Mayhew allegedly called 911 four times requesting alcohol delivery.

Mayhew admitted to the Bangor Daily News that he had been drinking and said he made the calls as a joke while intoxicated. He acknowledged that calling 911 was wrong and said he plans to plead guilty to misusing the emergency system and resisting arrest. However, he denies assaulting any deputies and plans to fight that charge in court.

Penobscot County Sheriff Troy Morton said the situation tied up important emergency resources, including dispatchers and deputies, and described it as a serious public safety issue. Morton added that he could not comment further because the case is still pending in court.

Deputies reportedly went to Mayhew’s home around 5:45 PM after warning him to stop making non-emergency calls. Police said Mayhew refused to cooperate when they attempted to arrest him. Officers claim he tried to place a deputy in a headlock during the struggle, though Mayhew denies that happened. Part of the altercation was recorded by Mayhew’s daughter, but a brief portion occurred off camera.