MIDDLESEX CENTRE, ONT. -- A 43-year-old London man is facing harassment charges after allegedly calling Councillor Arielle Kayabaga repeatedly for months.

Police say they received a report in September about a number of harassing phone calls that began in May and continued for several months.

The caller was not known to the Kayabaga, but a police investigation has identified the man and prompted charges.

On Thursday, the man was charged with criminal harassment by repeated communication and harassing telecommunication.

Kayabaga released a statement Monday saying she appreciates the efforts of the police and that this has been difficult for her and her family.

"To protect the integrity of the legal process related to this, I won't be providing any additional details or providing any additional comments."

She continued that while she understands the interest and is "grateful for the care and concern," she is asking for privacy.

The suspect is scheduled to appear in court in Jan. 2021 in connection with the charges.

Correction:

Nov. 5, 2021 - The name of the accused has been removed from this story as all charges have since been withdrawn.