Gainesville police arrested a woman who they say falsely claimed someone tried to kidnap her. Police say the unfounded claims caused “false public fear and panic to our community.”
The police department released a statement saying Aja Nicole Koseki, 35, made false accusations to police that she thwarted kidnappers on May 18 on the downtown square.
“Police began a thorough, intensive, and detailed investigation immediately after the claims,” the police department states.
Using high-tech digital evidence and security cameras, investigators were able to track Koseki’s moves. As a result of their investigation, police charged Koseki with two felonies – making false statements and causing false public alarm. They also charged her with falsely reporting a crime.
Many people went to social media to share Koseki’s narrative, and police say that created more “false public fear.”
The police department encourages the public to look to verified outlets for information, adding, “We will always provide information to the public that involves public safety.”
