911 on a cell phone  © Can Stock Photo / daisydaisy911 on a cell phone © Can Stock Photo / daisydaisy
Windsor

Charges after police led on wild goose chase triggered by 911 call

A 21-year-old Windsor man faces charges after the Windsor Police Service wasted time and resources investigating a hostage-taking that never happened.

Around 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, police received a 911 call that a person was being held hostage.

They investigated, but after spending a considerable amount of time on the case, they realized the story had been fabricated.

So, police investigated to find out who made the 911 call.

Once they identified the suspect, they attended a home and arrested a man.

Police urge the public not to abuse the 911 system.

"Such actions are illegal, tie up first responder resources from true emergencies, and place our communities at risk," the Windsor Police Service said in a release. "If someone believes a person is in danger, 911 should be utilized."

Gary White is charged with public mischief by making a false report and breaching a prior release condition.

The charges have not been proven in court.

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