Northumberland OPP say a Brampton resident is facing a charge following an investigation into a reported stolen vehicle in Brighton.
Police say they were called March 19 at around 1:15 a.m. to a home on Dean Drive, where it was reported a vehicle had been taken and that the driver may have been subjected to violence and could not be located.
The vehicle was recovered a short time later in a commuter parking lot off Highway 401. Due to concerns for the driver’s safety, Northumberland OPP launched an investigation with support from the crime unit, alongside a parallel missing person investigation.
Residents in the area may have noticed an increased police presence throughout the day as officers conducted inquiries.
Shortly before 7 p.m., police located the individual unharmed at a residence on Main Street in Brighton.
Police say as the investigation progressed, officers determined the original report was misleading. One individual from Brampton has been charged with obstructing a peace officer and is scheduled to appear in court in Cobourg in April.
Northumberland OPP say reporting false or misleading information can significantly impact police resources and delay response to real emergencies.
Police say their investigation remains ongoing.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)