During the early morning hours of Sunday, May 5, Queen Creek police officers responded to a call at Queen Creek Fire Station 1, located at 20678 E. Civic Parkway.
Upon arrival, they were informed by Queen Creek Fire and Medical staff that a female subject had driven to the location to report an attack that allegedly happened 15 to 30 minutes prior in an area near Crismon and Riggs roads. This complainant later recounted that she had been running on a trail in the area when she was suddenly attacked from behind and rendered unconscious. She explained that sometime during the encounter, she was injured, receiving a laceration on her neck.
Early in the investigation, the complainant became uncommunicative and eventually stated she would no longer participate in the investigation.
As detectives gathered and sifted through the evidence, they discovered a significant pattern of inconsistencies. Much of the evidence gathered directly contradicted the complainant’s account of the attack. Eventually, detectives concluded that the facts about the reported attack, as provided by the complainant, were completely unfounded.
In addition, investigators uncovered that these circumstances and other prior incidents provided a pattern of harassment targeting another individual who had a previous relationship with the complainant.
Based on the totality of the facts and evidence gathered during the investigation, today (June 20), the female subject was taken into custody, and charges of identity theft, false reporting and harassment (domestic violence) will be forwarded to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
“The circumstances of this incident are disturbing, frustrating, and tragic,” said Queen Creek Chief of Police Randy Brice. “The acts perpetrated by this person not only harassed another individual but tied up police resources that could have been deployed for a better purpose. Unfortunately, this false report has created fear of a crime that never occurred.”
Brice continued, “I want to point out a few very important things that are associated with this investigation. First and foremost, the Queen Creek Police Department is dedicated to the safety of this community. Second, we want those who are victims of crime to come forward and be heard. Third, we are committed to fully investigating all reported crimes, and we will be relentless in uncovering the truth and pursuing justice for those who have been victimized. I am proud of the effort and dedication my staff exhibited in ensuring a fair and comprehensive investigation. Lastly, I want to thank the community for the ongoing support demonstrated during this particular situation.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or mental health challenges, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/QCPD or contact Queen Creek Police Department Administration at 480-358-3535 (911 in an emergency) for information on available resources.
