False Kidnapping Report in Stockport Prompts Large Police Response
Teen admits to making up story about abduction by white van
On June 5, 2025, what began as a serious emergency call in the Town of Stockport turned out to be a false alarm. A 16-year-old girl called 911, claiming that a 13-year-old had been kidnapped by strangers in a white van on Atlantic Avenue.
Troopers from the New York State Police Livingston barracks responded immediately, launching a coordinated search with help from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Livingston Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Given the alarming nature of the call, law enforcement treated the report with the highest urgency.
Officers scoured the area looking for the white van and the supposed victim. However, after a thorough investigation and hours of searching, authorities found no signs of an abduction or the van.
When investigators sat down with the teen again, she admitted she had made the whole thing up. There was no kidnapping.
Serious Charge, Serious Response
The teen has now been charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident in the Third Degree, a Class A misdemeanor under New York State law. She received a family court appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Columbia County Family Court on June 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m.
The State Police were assisted throughout the investigation by both the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The case is now being handled through the juvenile court system.
False Reports Can Drain Resources
While this story ended without physical harm to anyone, police stress that false reports like this one can cause real damage. In a true emergency, every minute counts. When law enforcement officers are responding to a hoax, they may be pulled away from real emergencies—potentially putting lives at risk.
False reporting also drains public safety resources and may cause fear or confusion in the community. In recent years, law enforcement agencies nationwide have been cracking down harder on hoaxes and “swatting” calls—false emergency reports that send police rushing to an address under fake pretenses.
A Teachable Moment for Families and Communities
This incident serves as a reminder for parents, caregivers, and educators to talk with teens about the real-world consequences of making false 911 calls. While some might see it as a prank, the outcome can include criminal charges, court appearances, and lasting records—especially in a digital age where every move can be tracked.
The New York State Police have not released the identity of the teenager, since she is a minor.
If you or someone you know is in trouble or in need of help, call 911—but always tell the truth. Emergency responders are there to help, but they rely on accurate information to do their job.
