A Sumter, South Carolina, man was arrested earlier this week after he repeatedly called 911 to get rides to a local hospital for free even though he did not need medical treatment.

James Mack, 35, is accused of repeatedly calling for and getting the emergency service, getting to the hospital and then leaving without seeking or receiving medical treatment over a period of two weeks prior to Monday, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook.

On Monday, deputies went to the Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital to investigate and saw Mr. Mack exit the facility shortly after arriving. When they approached him, Mr. Mack fled and hid in a nearby church, though he was quickly found and subsequently detained.

He was then arrested and charged with unlawful use of 911 by intentionally making false reports, a misdemeanor. Mr. Mack remains in custody on a $1,500 bond according to state court records.

If convicted, Mr. Mack would face up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $200 under South Carolina state law.

• Brad Matthews can be reached at bmatthews@washingtontimes.com.