False Alarm Sparks Real Consequences
A 23-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of wasting police time following the alleged disappearance of a four-year-old boy in Lowestoft, Suffolk, that triggered an urgent public and police response.
The boy, named Quinton, was reported missing at around 9.20am on Tuesday (13 May), allegedly last seen running off from a group of people on Sands Lane in the Oulton area.
Massive Search Ends in Relief — and Arrest
Police issued an urgent public appeal at 10.50am, sharing a description of the child and requesting immediate assistance from anyone in the area.
By 1.40pm, Suffolk Constabulary confirmed the child had been found safe and well in another county, although the exact location was not disclosed.
Shortly after, officers arrested a woman at the scene on suspicion of wasting police time. She was taken into custody at Great Yarmouth Police Investigation Centre, where she remains under questioning.
Incident Details
- Time of Report: 9.20am
- Public Appeal Issued: 10.50am
- Child Found: 1.40pm
- Arrest Made: Early afternoon
Suffolk Constabulary later released a statement:
“Quinton was reported missing this morning, but he was subsequently found safe and well. Police would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance.”
Scene of the Search
Sands Lane, a quiet residential street in western Lowestoft, was at the centre of the frantic operation. The road borders homes, schools, and parks — leading to heightened local concern once the missing child alert spread online.
Public and Media Response
The incident quickly went viral, racking up thousands of views and shares across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and news platforms. But the situation took a sharp turn after the boy was found — with calls for accountability over false reporting.
What Is ‘Wasting Police Time’?
Under UK law, wasting police time is a criminal offence that can carry up to six months in prison and/or a fine, particularly in cases where significant resources are diverted from genuine emergencies.
Police resources, including multiple officers, vehicles, and potentially search drones or K9 units, were reportedly involved in the hunt for Quinton.
Public Reaction
One user wrote on X:
“So glad the boy is OK — but what an outrageous waste of emergency services’ time and resources.”
Another added:
“This kind of false alarm causes panic and takes attention away from real emergencies.”
A Teachable Moment
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the woman arrested was a family member or guardian. But the case reignites debate over parental responsibility, false reporting, and the cost of emergency mobilisation for non-genuine incidents.
Got Information?
Suffolk Constabulary urges the public to continue using 999 for emergencies, but reminds residents that making false reports is a criminal offence that will be investigated thoroughly.
