Police are warning the public against false reports after a Brampton man who was reported as the victim of an alleged violent carjacking was arrested this week.
The investigation started on Thursday when the OPP says officers with the Northumberland detachment got a report around 1:15 a.m. about a stolen vehicle in Brighton, approximately 100 kilometres west of Oshawa.
Police were told the vehicle was taken from Dean Drive by multiple suspects, and that the male driver had been attacked and could not be located.
The vehicle was found abandoned a short time later at a commuter parking lot off Highway 401, and police launched a missing person’s investigation due to concern for the driver’s well-being.
But the driver was located unharmed shortly before 7:00 p.m. at a residence on Main Street in Brighton, and as the investigation progressed, police arrested the man who had been reported missing hours earlier.
Jahlid Melo, 29, of Brampton, has been charged with obstruct peace officer.
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in April. Police say this investigation is ongoing, and reminded members of the public “that reporting an incident that is false, misleading, or made with the intent to deceive” can lead to charges.
“Police rely on accurate information to ensure community safety, respond to emergencies, and allocate resources effectively,” the OPP said following the incident.
Anyone with information about this incident can contact the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may also be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.
INsauga’s Editorial Standards and Policies
Last 30 Days: 33,844 Votes
All Time: 1,263,222 Votes
837 VOTES
Will Pierre Poilievre’s Joe Rogan appearance help or hurt him?
WIN A $100 GIFT CARD
Subscribe to INsauga’s daily email newsletter for a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card.