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Winnipeg Free Press - ONLINE EDITION

Winnipeg police accept apology over 'starlight tour' lie

By: Kevin Rollason

Posted: 02/21/2013 11:04 AM

Evan Maud seen today as he made a public apology. (BORIS MINKEVICH/ WINNIPEG FREE PRESS) Photo Store

A man who falsely accused two Winnipeg police officers of driving him out of the city and leaving him to fend for himself on a cold winter's night has made a public apology today for making up the story.

Evan Maud, a slight, dark-haired young man, told a room full of reporters that he was "sorry" for telling the lie.

"I feel bad for what I put them through," he said.

"I never wanted this to happen."

Maud, who didn't say what prompted him to make up the story, said he never thought it would go as far as it did.

"It was the worst two years of my life," he said, adding he hopes no one is discouraged in future in bringing forward legitimate complaints.

George Van Mackehlbergh, vice-president of the Winnipeg Police Association, said the police union accepts the apology.

"We are very happy with this outcome," he said.

Maud claimed in Dec. 2010 that two officers drove him to the edge of the city, took his coat, and left him there.

Incidents like that have actually occurred in other parts of Canada in the past, something that has become known as a 'starlight tour.'

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