Missing man charged after trying to fake his own death: RCMP

RCMP believe a man tried to fake his own death to avoid charges in Manitoba.

John Ross, 44, was reported missing by his wife Michelle Ross, 39, in August. Police were told that he was last seen at Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park, north of Swift Current.

Officers searched the area and Lake Diefenbaker for days but couldn’t find Ross. Officers got a tip that Ross was alive and hiding from police in Tompkins, Sask.

Police said Ross believed if officers thought he was dead, he wouldn’t have to face charges in Manitoba. Those charges are sexual in nature.

On Oct. 6, Swift Current Rural RCMP went to a home in Tompkins, Sask. where Ross and his wife were arrested and charged with public mischief.

Ross appeared in court on Oct. 11 where he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three months incarceration on his charges. His wife was released and will be appearing in provincial court in Swift Current Nov. 14.