Brantford Police are urging residents to rely on official information after false claims of an assault circulated in the community this week.
According to investigators, detectives have confirmed that no assault or sexual assault took place in the incident currently under review near Cedarland Park.
Police say they issued the clarification in response to a “recent wave of misinformation” spreading both online and by word of mouth.
“Spreading unverified claims, particularly those of a serious nature like allegations of sexual assault, can have serious consequences,” the service said in a statement.
Authorities noted that such rumours not only cause unnecessary panic and fear but also undermine trust in law enforcement and unfairly stigmatize individuals.
The Brantford Police Service is asking community members to:
• Rely only on official updates from police or other credible sources.
• Refrain from sharing or repeating unverified information, especially on social media.
• Consider the harm that rumours can cause to victims, witnesses, and the community.
• Recognize the shared responsibility of protecting both the physical and emotional well-being of others.
Despite the concern generated, police expressed appreciation for the community’s vigilance and ongoing support.
“Your assistance in reporting helpful, accurate information is vital,” the statement read.
“Let us ensure that our community responses are based on facts, not fear.”
