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Reports of 'suspicious white van' in the Valley a hoax, police say

A disturbing report Thursday about a suspicious white van cruising around the Valley area with the driver trying to engage children in conversation was a hoax, Greater Sudbury Police said Saturday. In a news release, Det. Sgt.
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Greater Sudbury Police Services are seeking the public's assistance in locating a suspect involved in an attempted robbery. File photo.

A disturbing report Thursday about a suspicious white van cruising around the Valley area with the driver trying to engage children in conversation was a hoax, Greater Sudbury Police said Saturday.

In a news release, Det. Sgt. John Valtonen said police received a second complaint Friday “that clearly identified two incidents had occurred on the evening of Jan. 21 in the same area of the Valley.

“Uniform Patrol members, along with CID detectives, continued the investigation throughout Friday,” Valtonen said in the release.

“CID investigators determined the two incidents were the direct result of an inappropriate, short-sighted prank, thought to be funny by two young adult males driving around in the white van.”

They were interviewed by police who determined “there was clearly no criminal intent,” the release said.

“The two adult males will be apologizing to the complainants for their inappropriate actions, acknowledging they caused unnecessary concern in the community. Greater Sudbury Police want to thank the public for their assistance in this matter and emphasize there is absolutely no risk to the public as a result of this incident.”