SMITHS FALLS — A sewer backup complaint raised at Smiths Falls council earlier this month has now led to a criminal charge related to an attempted insurance claim.
Smiths Falls Police Service say a 38-year-old Perth man has been charged following an investigation into an alleged attempt to file a claim involving the municipality’s insurance provider.
Brian Stinson is charged with one count of making a false statement in writing. He was released from custody with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on July 13, 2026, at 9 a.m. at the Perth courthouse.
Police confirmed the accused is the same individual who spoke at a council meeting on April 13 regarding a sewer backup at a Smiths Falls property.
During that council meeting, Stinson told members of council that his home experienced two sewage backups in December, resulting in $3,775.74 in damages. He attributed the issue to a defect in a municipal sewer pipe.
Municipal staff, however, said the situation may have involved other contributing factors, including flushable wipes found in the line, and noted the pipe was repaired on Dec. 29 with no further reported issues.
According to police, the charge is connected to an attempted municipal insurance claim arising from that dispute.
“It is alleged that Mr. Stinson attempted to submit a claim under the town’s insurance without authorization,” said Brett Lacey, crime intelligence analyst with Smiths Falls Police Service, on May 4, in response to questions from Hometown News.
Police said no funds were paid out, and the attempt was identified and stopped immediately, resulting in no financial loss.
The alleged incident occurred on April 17, as Stinson was charged with one count of making a false statement in writing.
As part of his release conditions, the accused must notify authorities of any change of address and have no communication with individuals involved in the matter.
The charge has not been proven in court.
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