The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have reported the arrest of a man who allegedly called 911 while under the influence of alcohol, falsely claiming that he was being stabbed. This incident has prompted the OPP to issue a warning regarding the misuse of the emergency hotline.

According to a statement released by the OPP on Monday, officers responded to the emergency call made around 10 p.m. on Sunday. The call originated from a residence in Espanola, located approximately 50 minutes southwest of Sudbury. Upon arrival, officers quickly determined that there was no stabbing incident taking place.

The statement detailed that the intoxicated caller had sought police assistance not for an emergency, but rather to retrieve personal belongings from another location, thereby misusing the emergency services. This false report not only posed a risk to public safety but also diverted essential police and emergency communication resources from genuine emergencies.

While the identity of the individual has not been disclosed, the police confirmed that he was arrested for public intoxication and public mischief. The OPP emphasized the seriousness of misusing the 911 emergency system, stating, "911 should only be used for emergencies involving police, fire, or medical services where someone's health, safety, or property is in jeopardy, or a crime is in progress."

Furthermore, the OPP highlighted that intentionally misusing 911 is a criminal offense, and individuals who are found guilty of such misuse may face charges of public mischief.