A politician who asserted that a threatening voicemail she purportedly left for a potential mayoral candidate last summer was generated by artificial intelligence has been apprehended and indicted on charges of making threats.
Ontario Councilor Corinna Traill was taken into custody on Wednesday, facing two counts of uttering threats, as confirmed by police.
Former mayoral candidate Tom Dingwall stated on Facebook in September that Traill had left him a voicemail in August, instructing him not to pursue the mayoral candidacy to ensure a friend of hers could run unopposed.
He alleged that Traill’s message specified that if he did not comply, she would come to his home, kill him, and sexually assault his wife, followed by a second sexual assault.
He subsequently called for Traill’s resignation, asserting that no elected official, whose duty is to represent the public, should resort to intimidation or threats to deter anyone from seeking public office or engaging in public service, particularly when done for the advantage of a friend.
Traill, in a separate statement posted on Facebook in September, disavowed sending the voicemail.
She asserted unequivocally that she did not create the message, stating that she had been advised that artificial intelligence was involved. Traill claimed that while portions of the voicemail contained her voice, other parts were artificially generated.
At the time, she also noted that her team was attempting to determine who had created the message.
She further added that for over a decade, she had dedicated herself to representing the community’s best interests, advocating for residents, and ensuring local decision-making reflected the values and priorities of those she served. She concluded by stating that her dedication would not falter despite the prevailing circumstances.
The police department indicated that Traill was released from custody on her own recognizance and is slated to appear in court in January.
Digital has sought comment from Traill.