In December 2025, investigators began examining multiple reports from victims who had sold items through Facebook Marketplace and were subsequently paid with counterfeit Canadian currency. In each incident, the suspects used fictitious Facebook accounts to arrange meetings with sellers at locations in Hamilton’s west end. During these transactions, the suspects provided counterfeit bank notes in exchange for merchandise, leaving victims unaware that the currency was fraudulent until after the sale.

Investigators believe more than 10 incidents are linked to the same suspects. To date, victims have received in excess of $20,000 in counterfeit currency.

As a result of the investigation and the execution of several search warrants, two male youths, aged 15 and 14, were arrested and charged.

15-year-old male youth charged with:

• Fraud Under $5,000 (3 counts)
• Uttering Counterfeit Money (3 counts)
• Possession of Counterfeit Money (3 counts)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (3 counts)

14-year-old male youth charged with:

• Fraud Under $5,000 (3 counts)
• Uttering Counterfeit Money (3 counts)
• Possession of Counterfeit Money (3 counts)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (3 counts)

The identities of the accused are protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and cannot be released.

Hamilton Police remind residents to take precautions when buying or selling items online:

• Meet in a public, well-lit location.
• Consider completing transactions at a designated community safety zone - Hamilton Police Division 30 located at 400 Rymal Road East.
• Examine all currency carefully before completing a sale.
• Be cautious of buyers using newly created or unverifiable online profiles.
• Report any suspected counterfeit currency to police immediately.

Anyone with information that may assist police is asked to contact Detective Phil Hedgcock of the Financial Crimes Unit at 905-546-4526. To provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at Crime Stoppers Hamilton.

From December 15, 2022 to January 16th, 2025, Pamela Ellis, a 44-year-old female from Hamilton, was providing care for multiple vulnerable residents of Community Living Hamilton. During that time, Ellis was able to gain access to the residents’ bank accounts for the purposes of assisting them with their finances. In that time, Ellis diverted more than $277,000 from the residents’ accounts into her own personal use.

After a lengthy investigation, officers arrested and charged Ellis. She will now go before the courts for the following charges:

·         Fraud Over $5,000

·         Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000.

If you have any information that you believe will assist with this investigation, please contact the Crimes Against Seniors Unit at 905-540-5155. To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

Hamilton Police are warning the public about an ongoing email extortion scam after receiving numerous reports in the past week.

Victims receive an email from unknown suspects, which claim the suspects have acquired compromising pictures of the victim and direct them to send money to a Bitcoin wallet or the pictures will be sent to their friends and family.

The email claims the victim has been viewing adult content online, and it alleges that malware has captured compromising photos and videos of them. The suspect includes a photo of the victim's house, along with their name, date of birth, and phone number, as proof of their knowledge about the victim's identity. They then demand immediate payment to a Bitcoin wallet, threatening to release the compromising material to the victim's family and friends if the demand is not met.

Hamilton Police urge the public to exercise caution to avoid falling victim to this scam and to report scams through our online reporting portal.

If you receive this email, do not send money or bitcoin to the suspects. As a reminder, do not give out personal information to unknown parties and be cautious when sharing personal information on websites. Do not open emails, files or links from unknown senders.

Please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website using the following links for tips on how to protect yourself from scams and frauds.

In March 2024, investigators launched an investigation into fraudulent vehicle purchases involving stolen identities. The suspect, employed as a sales representative at a local dealership, used his position to fraudulently acquire 14 high-end vehicles. These purchases, made between November 2023 and March 2024, resulted in over $1.5 million in losses for the dealership and financial institutions.

The victims of the identity theft were unaware that loans had been taken out in their names to finance these purchases. Most of the vehicles have been exported out of the country or re-registered with new Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), with only one vehicle recovered so far.

On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Financial Crimes Unit officers arrested 44-year-old Shelton Mark Gregouire of London. 

He has been charged with the following offenses:

• 14 counts of Fraud Over $5,000
• 4 counts of Fraud Under $5,000
• 23 counts of Identity Theft
• 14 counts of Obtaining Credit by Fraud
• 9 counts of Attempted Credit by Fraud
• 23 counts of Uttering Forged Documents

Shelton Gregouire is scheduled to appear in court at a future date.

This investigation remains active, and further arrests are expected.

Hamilton Police urge community members to regularly monitor their credit reports and scores to ensure all debts are accounted for and to stay vigilant against identity theft. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately.

Anyone with information that may assist in this ongoing investigation is urged to contact Detective Angela Abrams of the Hamilton Police Service Financial Crimes Unit at 905-546-4603.
For those wishing to provide information anonymously, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit tips online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.

Hamilton Police Service have arrested two foreign nationals from the United Kingdom involved in a roofing repair scam targeting senior citizens and vulnerable individuals.

On August 14, 2024, officers responded to a fraud report from a homeowner in the area of Barton St E and Kenilworth Ave N. The victim had been approached by the two accused, who told her there was a problem with her roof that required immediate work. The two men were using a company name that closely resembled a legitimate company. The two accused used high-pressure tactics and convinced the victim to put down a sizeable down payment for the work. After receiving the initial funds, the two accused convinced the victim more money was required for work. It was then that the victim realized the fraud and contacted police.

Plainclothes officers from East End HEAT and the Financial Crimes Unit were waiting at the victim’s residence when the two accused returned to obtain the money from the victim. Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody. Both suspects appeared before the courts and had their bail denied.

It appears the suspects entered Canada in late June 2024.

The Financial Crimes Unit advises the following:

• Be cautious of unsolicited contractors going door to door, especially those who use pressure tactics, demand payment in cash or bank drafts, or require a large down payment.
• Avoid making impulse decisions when hiring a contractor. Take the time to research online, seek references, and ask for recommendations.
• Choose a reputable company and ensure you obtain a detailed written contract.
• Obtain multiple written estimates before making a decision.
• Remember, you are under no obligation to speak to a salesperson soliciting at your door.
• If an offer sounds too good to be true, it likely is.

The Financial Crimes Unit believes there may be more victims across the GTA.

Anyone with information can contact the Financial Crimes Unit at 905.546.3840 or Crime stoppers.

In May 2023, the Hamilton Police initiated an investigation upon discovering that a nurse employed at a Long Term Care Facility had misrepresented herself as a qualified nurse to secure employment. Between October 2022 and May 2023, the woman held positions at three Long Term Care facilities. An investigation led by the Hamilton Police Financial Crimes Unit, revealed that the woman forged a real nurse’s legitimate documents into her own name to obtain employment.

Oladoyin (Deborah) Farominiyi, a 29-year-old female of Mississauga has been charged with;

• Fraud over $5000
• False Pretence over $5000
• Four counts of Used Forged Documents

Farominiyi has been released from custody with a future court date.

The police investigation continues, with investigators having contacted both the Ministry of Long-Term Care and the College of Nurses of Ontario.

If you have any information that you believe could assist police with this investigation, please contact Detective Ben Adams at 905-540-5300 or Staff Sergeant Christian Mukendi at 905-546-3841.

To provide information anonymously call Crimes Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com/

Under this scam, the victim receives a call from a fraudster posing as a grandchild or other family member. The fraudster claims they have been arrested and need bail money or financial help in an emergency.

The fraudster will ask the victim not to call other family as they do not want anyone to find out.  Often, the fraudster will turn the phone over to another person, who will claim to be a lawyer or law enforcement official. The victim is then told to send money to a bank account or via courier to an address.

The Hamilton Police provides the following advice should you receive such a call:

•      Be suspicious of calls that demand money or immediate action.

•      No law enforcement agency will demand immediate payment of currency.

•      Never offer information to the caller.

•      If the fraudster asks a question like "Do you know who this is?”, simply say no and have them tell you.

•      Contact another family member to confirm the story.

•      Remember to never send money to someone under uncertain conditions.

•      Don't be afraid to say "No".

Hamilton Police will be offering information sessions to the community to help educate on these types of frauds and what to be aware of.  There will be victims bravely speaking of their experience in hopes to prevent this type of crime happening to them. If you have a loved one or someone who may be vulnerable to this type of fraud please have them attend or attend on their behalf and pass the information on to them.  Lets work together to help prevent this type of crime.

If you believe you have fallen victim to such a scam, please contact the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.

More Resources

Cyber Crime, Computer and Internet Safety – provides information regarding online frauds and crimes.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – provides more advice on scams and frauds and current types of frauds.

Competition Bureau's Information Centre – provides information regarding laws businesses must follow.

Office of Consumer Affairs – provides information about common scams that occur in your own province or territory.

On Tuesday, November 1, 2022, the victim, a 94-year-old man of Hamilton, began receiving phone calls from a male impersonating an RCMP police officer. The victim was told that his grandson was arrested for having a large quantity of drugs in his vehicle and was in police custody. The scammer then demanded the victim pay a $120,000 bond to release his grandson.

Another male, posing as the victim’s grandson, came on the phone franticly pleading with the victim to pay the bond, so that he could be released from police custody. Worried about his grandson, the victim agreed to pay a portion of the demanded bond money, as it was all he had at the time.

The monetary losses sustained were minimized by the financial institution that stepped in when the victim attempted to obtain money from their account.

Later that same day, a female playing the role of a court courier, attended the victim’s residence and collected the money. The victim was advised there was a court imposed ‘gag order’, and he was not permitted to notify anyone of what happened or his grandson would remain in prison.

On Wednesday, November 2, 2022, the victim received more phone calls from the suspects demanding the remainder of the bond money. The suspects directed the victim to place the money in an envelope at an undisclosed location. At this point, the victim became suspicious and notified the Hamilton Police Service

 Hamilton Police have arrested two males for the following charges:

Police are seeking at least one additional suspect, believed to be a female, for their involvement in this crime.

The public is reminded that it is not the practice of any police service to collect money for court purposes.

If you have any information that you believe could assist police with the investigation into this crime, you are asked to contact Detective Angela Abrams at 905-546-4603 or Staff Sergeant Oliver Mann 905-546-3841 of the Hamilton Police Financial Crimes Unit.  

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

The scam begins after the victim receives a call from a person posing as their grandchild or other family member who claims they have been arrested and need bail money or emergency financial help.

“Fraudsters” will ask the victim to keep the call private and not alert other family members about the fake situation. In some instances, the fraudster will even pass the phone to an accomplice pretending to be a lawyer or law enforcement official.

On Thursday, August 5, 2022, the Hamilton Police commenced investigations into four separate incidents of the defrauding of seniors in Hamilton. It is believed that the same suspect(s) are involved in these crimes due to the similarity in details.                                              

Police are reminding citizens to be cautious of suspicious phone calls. If you receive a call that one of your family members are in trouble and need bail money, please contact the police. Never provide personal information over the telephone, text or email. The police will never request payment by money, service business, iTunes/Google Pay, Credit gift cards or bitcoins.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into these crimes, you are asked to contact Crimes Against Seniors Unit, Detective Sergeant Michelle Wiley by calling 905-540-6375.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com 

On Thursday, February 3, 2022, a 77-year-old female victim received a call from a male believed to be her son, informing her that he had been involved in an accident and been arrested by police. The suspect went on to tell the victim that her son would be released on bail for a large sum of cash.

Victim agreed to pay the cost to release her son and arrangements were made to pick up the cash at the victim’s residence.  

The suspect contacted the victim again, where she was told that additional money was required and arrangements were made for the accused to attend her residence on Monday, February 7, 2022.

Hamilton Police became aware of this scam and intervened when the accused attended the victim’s residence.

Police arrested a 19-year-old male from Quebec.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Constable Phil Poirier of the Crimes Against Seniors Unit by calling 905-540-5300.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

The Hamilton Police Service provides the following advice should you receive such a call:

• Be suspicious of calls that demand money or immediate action.
• No law enforcement agency will demand immediate payment of currency.
• Never offer information to the caller.
• If the fraudster asks a question like "Do you know who this is?”, simply say no and have them tell you.
• Contact another family member to confirm the story.
• Remember to never send money to someone under uncertain conditions.
• Don't be afraid to say "No".

If you believe you have fallen victim to such a scam, please contact the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.

More Resources

Cyber Crime, Computer and Internet Safety – provides information regarding online frauds and crimes.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – provides more advice on scams and frauds and current types of frauds.

Competition Bureau's Information Centre – provides information regarding laws businesses must follow.

Office of Consumer Affairs – provides information about common scams that occur in your own province or territory.

Under this scam, the victim receives a call from a fraudster posing as a grandchild or other family member. The fraudster claims they have been arrested and need bail money or financial help in an emergency.

The fraudster will ask the victim not to call other family as they do not want anyone to find out. Often, the fraudster will turn the phone over to another person, who will claim to be a lawyer or law enforcement official. The victim is then told to send money to a bank account or via courier to an address.

The Hamilton Police Major Fraud Unit provides the following advice should you receive such a call:

• Be suspicious of calls that demand money or immediate action.
• No law enforcement agency will demand immediate payment of currency.
• Never offer information to the caller.
• If the fraudster asks a question like "Do you know who this is?”, simply say no and have them tell you.
• Contact another family member to confirm the story.
• Remember to never send money to someone under uncertain conditions.
• Don't be afraid to say "No".

If you believe you have fallen victim to such a scam, please contact the Hamilton Police non-emergency line at 905-546-4925.

More Resources

Cyber Crime, Computer and Internet Safety – provides information regarding online frauds and crimes.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre – provides more advice on scams and frauds and current types of frauds.

Competition Bureau's Information Centre – provides information regarding laws businesses must follow.

Office of Consumer Affairs – provides information about common scams that occur in your own province or territory.

The Hamilton Police Major Fraud Unit are investigating into multiple reports of fraudulent sales of collectible memorabilia.

In February 2021, the Hamilton Police Major Fraud Unit began an investigation into a number of frauds, involving the online sale of pro wrestling collectibles to victims outside of Canada.

Hamilton Police made an arrest on Monday, July 19, 2021, surrounding the investigation into the fraudulent sales.

Miranda is active on pro wrestling social media sites and uses his picture when conducted business but has been known to use multiple aliases.

Police believe there could be more victims.

If you have any information that you believe could assist police with the investigation, you are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Major Fraud Unit at 905-546-3840.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

Hamilton Police are requesting the assistance of the public in locating fraudster, Mark Dupuis, 50.

Dupuis is currently wanted by Hamilton Police, however is also wanted in Montreal, Winnipeg, Toronto, and Quebec.

Mark Dupuis has a long history of presenting himself using other names, living an assumed life, and committing frauds against unsuspecting victims in the GTA and throughout the country.

He is known to operate under names such as Richard Sestak, Mark Richards, Peter Adamcova and Anthony Simms.

Dupuis was last known to be in the Toronto area.

He is wanted for the following charges:

• Fraud Over $5,000
• Fraud Under $5,000 x2
• Fail to Comply Probation

Dupuis is described as male, white, 5’6, 174 lbs, grey hair, glasses and medium build.

If Dupuis is observed, police ask that members of the public contact police. Do not approach.

If you have any information regarding this matter or any other unreported crimes involving Mark Dupuis, you are asked to contact Acting Detective Sergeant Rob Hardy of the Major Fraud Unit by calling 905-546- 3841 or Detective Constable Sarah Postuma by calling 905-546-3839.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

The Hamilton Police Service is warning the community, especially vulnerable seniors to be aware of the "bank investigator scam". It has recently victimized residents of Hamilton.

Suspect(s) in this scam contact an individual by phone advising they are an investigator from a financial institution and that there is a problem with their account. They then state that it requires immediate action or they will incur further loss.

The victim is instructed to go to their financial institution and withdraw cash, then told to purchase large amounts of gift cards or place money into a virtual currency ATM.

They are further directed to provide the numbers on the back of the gift cards to the "bank investigator". Once the numbers are provided, the gift cards cannot be returned and the victim is at a financial loss.

Hamilton Police remind the public of the following:

• Be alert when dealing with your financial matters
• Always question urgent requests for money or gift cards
• A financial institution will never ask you to pay for anything in gift cards or virtual currency
• A financial institution will never use their clients in any internal investigation or quality control audit
•  If you are in doubt, contact your financial institution from a number listed on a previous statement, never use the number provided by the caller

Hamilton Police would like to remind retailers of the following:

• Continually look for signs someone is a potential victim
• This includes the person being on their phone throughout the transaction
• Set a dollar limit on the amount of gift cards that can be sold without manager approval
• Ask the person why they are buying such a large amount of gifts cards
• Notify the police immediately if you suspect the person could be the victim of a scam

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Acting Detective Sergeant Rob Hardy by calling 905-546-3841.

On September 11, 2020, investigators from the Crimes Against Seniors Unit (CASU) began an investigation into the defrauding of a 95-year-old Hamilton resident. The victim was instructed to send a large sum of money to an address in order to avoid being arrested. 

On October 14, 2020, Hamilton Police executed a search warrant at a Brampton address. Through continued investigation, police identified two males from the Brampton area that were involved. As well, a second 86-year-old male from British Columbia was also identified as being a victim of fraud over $5,000.00 related to the males.

The males, age 19 and 26 are scheduled to have their matter addressed at the John Sopinka Courthouse on February 9, 2021. They are both facing a charge of Fraud Under $5000 and Fraud Over $5000.

Police are reminding citizens to be cautious of suspicious phone calls. If you receive a call that you own money, call the Canada Revenue Agency. Never provide personal information over the telephone, text or email. The CRA or the police will never request payment by money, service business, iTunes/Google Pay, Credit gift cards or bitcoins.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Sergeant Darren Murphy by calling 905-540-6375.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

Over the course of several months, fraudsters in the GTA have been targeting Good Samaritans by using the ruse of coming to the aid of a taxi customer.

The scam involves two suspects and a vehicle resembling a taxi. The taxi is parked in a high traffic area. One suspect poses as the taxi driver and the other suspect poses as a customer. The two pretend to have a loud argument and the taxi driver refuses to take the customer’s cash payment due to Covid-19. A Good Samaritan who is walking by is then approached and asked to help by letting the taxi customer use their debit card to pay for the cab fare in exchange for cash. As the victim inputs their PIN number into the modified Point of Sale terminal, it records their card data and PIN number. Once the transaction clears, the victim is given another bank card, resembling their own. The suspects, who now have the victim’s actual debit card, use the PIN number to process fraudulent transactions. For their assistance, the victim is usually given a $10 bill.

The following tips are provided to lessen the likelihood of being a victim of a point of sale scam:

• Do not give your card to anyone
• Do not return a point of sale terminal with your card still inserted
• Do not make a payment for an unknown person using your personal card in exchange for cash
• Inspect your card after each transaction to ensure it is your own
• Cover your fingers when entering your PIN

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Acting Detective Sergeant Rob Hardy by calling 905-546-3841.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

On Thursday, January 16, 2020, Hamilton Police executed a search warrant at a residence related to a couple previously charged with multiple fraud offences. At that time, a number of items seized from the location included electronic devices, appliances, payment cards, identification, banking documents and mail addressed to a number of people not affiliated with the address.

Through continued investigation, detectives obtained a warrant to examine the seized electronic devices. As a result, police identified personal and banking information for an additional 162 victims of identity theft. These victims suffered bank account takeovers, fraudulent transactions on their credit cards, loans and other credit obtained in their names.

The accused couple has been made aware of the ongoing investigation as well as the additional charges.

CHARGED

• Bobbi-Jo REICHHELD, female 34-years-of age from Hamilton and Joshua VIRAG, male 31-years-of –age of no fixed address

CHARGES JOINTLY SHARED

• Identity theft X 152
• Identity fraud X 78
• Fraud under $5000 X 23
• Unauthorized possession of a credit card X 3
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000 X 11
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 X 1
• Mischief to property over $5000 X 1
• Possession of counterfeit mark X 3

CHARGED

• Joshua VIRAG

ADDITIONAL CHARGES

• Fraud under $5000 X 3
• Identity theft X 8
• Identity fraud X 9

REICHHELD is scheduled to appear at the John Sopinka Courthouse on June 11, 2020. Joshua VIRAG is scheduled to appear at the John Sopinka Courthouse on April 30, 2020. The couple will be facing 292 criminal charges.

The public is reminded that if they learn their bank account or credit card account has been compromised, to call the police and file a report.

For cases of Identity Fraud contact credit reporting centres to check your credit activity and flag your credit account for fraud:

• TransUnion #1-877-525-3823
• Equifax #1-800-465-7166

If you have any information that you believe could assist the police with this investigation, you are asked to contact Detective Angela Abrams by calling 905-546-4603.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

On March 23, 2020, Hamilton Police received information from Hamilton Public Health Services about an individual who had created a fake physician’s note with fraudulent medical information about testing positive for COVID-19.

The fake note was presented to a restaurant supervisor on March 19, 2020. The McDonald’s restaurant, located on Rymal Road, took immediate safety actions by closing the store and sending all employees home to self-isolate.

The restaurant remained closed for several days while professional cleaning services worked to sanitize the store. There has been a significant impact on the restaurant, local customers and employees which instigated the need for police involvement.

On March 26, 2020, Police arrested and charged an 18-year-old female from Hamilton with fraud and mischief.

Charged: Female, 18, Hamilton resident

• Mischief Over $5000
• Fraud Under $5000
• Use a Forged Document
• Make Forged Document

The female has been released on an Undertaking and expected to appear in court on May 18, 2020.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

A Hamilton couple was arrested after obtaining accommodations at a local hotel by fraudulent means. Police then learned the couple was in possession of numerous other securities and documents belonging to other victims. A Hamilton man will appear in court tomorrow to answer to charges and his partner is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, March 9, 2020.

On Thursday, February 13, 2020 shortly before 8:24 a.m., Hamilton Police attended the Sheraton Hotel located at 116 King Street West, Hamilton, to investigate a fraud. Once on scene, information was obtained that raised suspicion regarding the financial ability of a couple who was occupying a room.

Through continued investigation, police determined the credit card presented by the couple for payment purposes wasn’t issued to either party. Police attended the hotel room of the couple and they were arrested without incident. Inside the room, police observed numerous pieces of identification, financial documents and bank cards not belonging to the individuals.

The couple was taken into police custody and the evidence in the room was seized. The male is scheduled to appear at the John Sopinka Courthouse on Friday, February 14, 2020, to answer to criminal charges. The female was subsequently released and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, March 9, 2020.

The investigation into the items seized is ongoing and police anticipate further charges will be laid.

SEIZED

• Credit cards
• Driver licences
• Passports
• Random pieces of identification
• Business cheques
• Computer equipment

CHARGED

• Hamilton man, 48-years-of age

CHARGES

• Fraud under $5000
• Utter forged documents

CHARGED

• Hamilton woman, 38-years-of-age

CHARGES

• Fraud under $5000
• Utter forged documents

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime, you are asked to contact Detective Dave Wide by calling 905-546-4639.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

The investigation has revealed dishonest employee types of offences that took place between January 1, 2018, and June 1, 2019.

On Tuesday, November 12, 2019, Jatinder Labana, an Executive Director was arrested and charged with Fraud Over $5000, Making Forged Documents, Theft Over $5000, Theft of Mail and Theft by a Person required to Report. He was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear at the John Sopinka Courthouse on December 17, 2019. Labana has also been removed from his position within the organization and is bound by conditions not to communicate with witnesses or to attend the Gursikh Temple at 86 Covington Street, Hamilton.

The investigation continues. The Hamilton Police are committed to assisting members of the Sikh community in understanding the financial implications of this Board Member’s actions and any other involved persons.

CHARGED

• Jatinder Labana, 55-year-old male from Glanbrook

CHARGES

• Fraud over $5000
• Making forged documents
• Theft over $5000
• Theft of mail
• Theft by person required to report

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Rob Mayea of the Major Fraud Branch by calling 905-546-4521 or his Major Case Manager D/Sgt. Greg Doerr at 905 546-3841.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

On Thursday, October 17, 2019, Hamilton Police arrested David Dawson in relation to the funds. He was taken into custody and later released by way of a Promise to Appear. He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, November 18, 2019, to answer to criminal charges.

CHARGED

• David Dawson, 67-years of age from Hamilton

CHARGES

• Fraud over $5000
• Theft by Conversion and
• Theft by Person Required to Account

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime, you are asked to contact Detective Rob Mayea (905) 546-4521, rmayea@hamiltonpolice.on.ca or Det. Sergeant Greg Doerr (905) 546-3841.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

On Monday, June 10, 2019, shortly before 6:30 p.m., Hamilton Police received information about a fraud in progress at the Cash Money Store located in the area of Queenston Road and Greenford Drive. Staff believed a male customer was attempting to cash a fraudulent cheque. They recognized him from a previous incident at another store where on June 8, 2019; he was successful in cashing a similar cheque which was later proven to be fraudulent.

When police arrived they located the male suspect inside the store. He was arrested without incident.

The copies of the cheques, both valued at $2515.00 were seized as evidence and the male was taken into police custody. An investigation into his identity revealed he was bond by two probations orders. His arrest signified a violation of those orders.

The male is scheduled to appear in court today to answer to the charges.

CHARGED

• Hamilton man, 26-years-of-age

CHARGES

• Fraud Under $5000 X2
• Fail to comply probation X2

On Wednesday, May 1, 2019, shortly after 8:00 p.m., Hamilton Police received information about a fraud occurrence at a restaurant located in the area of Barton Street East and Frederick Avenue. Prior to police arrival, the two female suspects entered the restaurant, obtained a meal and left money believed to be counterfeit on the table, as payment prior to leaving. Staff recognized the fraudulent money and followed the suspects as they entered a taxi and left the scene. They continued to update police communications and a short time later the vehicle was located in the area of Dunsmure Road and Houghton Avenue North. The female occupants were identified and arrested. It was learned one of the females was in disguise while at the restaurant.

Further investigation revealed one suspect was bound by a court order and as such was transported to police custody. She appeared in court earlier today.

The second female was released and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, May 27, 2019, to answer to a criminal charge.

SEIZED

• $100 bill, Canadian currency

CHARGED

• Heather Urban, 27-years-of-age from Hamilton

CHARGES

• Food and lodging fraud
• Possess counterfeit money
• Utter counterfeit money

CHARGED

• Female 23-years-of-age from Hamilton

CHARGES

• Food and lodging fraud

The following tips are being provided to help identify counterfeit bills:

• Feel the bill. All Canadian and US currency is produced with raised ink on the shoulders of the portrait and elsewhere on the bill.

• Look at the bill. The finish on a genuine bill does not scrape off and the colour does not run when it gets wet. The holographic strip is embedded in the bill, not added as a sticker, and does not peel off.

• Tilt the bill from side to side. On polymer bills, the transparent window contains a metallic portrait that matches the larger one on the face of the bill and changes colour when tilted. The transparent window also contains small numbers that match the value of the bill.

• On older bills, the holographic strip contains maple leaves that change colour when the bill is tilted. This strip also contains small numbers that match the value of the bill.

• The dollar value is hidden in the frosted maple leaf in the corner.

• If you suspect a bill is counterfeit, politely refuse to accept the note. Advise the person to check the note with their bank and inform police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money. Call 911 if the transaction is in progress or 905-546-4925 to report bills you believe are counterfeit.

On March 2, 2019, shortly after 8:30 p.m., a Hamilton resident attended the parking lot of 970 Upper Wentworth to purchase a new Samsung Galaxy Note9 for $650.00 which was located from a Kijiji ad. A lone male suspect handed over what appeared to be a newly packaged phone. Shortly after the seller's departure, the buyer realized they had bought a non-operational phone.

Shortly after police identified a second victim who had also located an ad on Kijiji for a new iPhone XR and agreed to meet up with a male at 801 Mohawk Road West to purchase the phone. A male suspect of the same description provided the buyer with a newly packaged phone for $700.00. Only after the suspect left, did the purchaser realize that they also bought a non-operational phone.

Police continued their investigation and located the suspect at a residence in Brampton.

The male suspect was charged with Fraud on March 24, 2019, and released on an Appearance Notice. He is expected to attend John Sopkina Court House in Hamilton on April 23, 2019.

Charged: Male (20-years-old) Brampton resident

• Fraud Under $5000 x 2

Hamilton Police remind the general public that online purchases should be done carefully. Check out the product thoroughly and inspect it in front of the seller. Always meet in a public place, and never meet anyone alone. Don’t feel uncomfortable by asking direct questions.

The rule “Buyer Beware” should be exercised. If a purchase appears too good to be true it probably is.

On Wednesday, March 13, 2019, shortly before 9:30 a.m., Hamilton Police responded to Home Depot located at 1775 Stone Church Road East for a fraud in progress. The suspect had been observed selecting power tool equipment, walking around the store for several minutes and then attending the customer service counter. He convinced the staff that he was returning the merchandise and received money related to the cost of the items.

Police located the suspect in a vehicle, parked in the lot. He was arrested based on the information provided by the Loss Prevention Officer. A search of the male revealed he was in possession of a stun gun. An investigation in the male’s identity confirmed he was bound by several court orders. As a result of the arrest, he was now in violation of those orders.

The accused was taken into police custody and is scheduled to appear in bail court today to answer to the charges.

SEIZED

• Stun gun

ARRESTED

• Male, 25-years-of age from Stoney Creek

CHARGES

• Fraud under $5000
• Breach of conditional sentence order X2
• Possession of prohibited weapon
• Possession contrary to order X2

On Monday, March 11, 2019, shortly after 2:30 p.m., an off-duty officer was with his family, parked at a shopping centre in the area of Barton Street East and Centennial Parkway. At that time a male parked beside him and from his vehicle attempted to sell him what he claimed to be solid 10 k gold jewellery for $300.00. He claimed he needed money for gas. The officer informed the male that he was not interested. The male then exited his vehicle and approached the officer’s vehicle, stuck his head inside the window and attempted to engage him in conversation based on the officer’s children. He was ordered away from the vehicle and the officer exited and identified himself as an employee of the Hamilton Police Service. The male attempted to flee but was secured. A passerby assisted by contacting police. He then advised the male had tried the same sales pitch with him moments earlier.

The male, 29-years-of-age from Scarborough, was arrested and will appear in court on Tuesday, April 9, 2019, to answer to the charge of Fraud under $5000.00.

The jewellery was seized as evidence. It was determined to be costume jewellery valued between $2-10.00.

March is Fraud Prevention Month and Hamilton Police are reminding the public to be on alert for fraudsters and the scams they peddle. Check out the link below to help minimize the risk of being a victim.

https://bit.ly/2GD6lzz

During the month of December 2018, the Hamilton Police Service began receiving complaints regarding fraudulent event ticket sales, using internet transactions, for concerts in Toronto and Montreal. Additionally, police were made aware of bogus cottage and apartment rentals in the Hamilton area where unsuspecting renters would forward payment under the guise of a vacation rental and then no further information was offered and all communication would stop.

On Tuesday, February 26, 2019, police executed a search warrant at an east Hamilton address to seize computers but were unable to locate and arrest the offender Jacob Miranda.

On Wednesday, March 6, 2019, Jacob Miranda was arrested by Hamilton Police Service for offences related to the sale of fraudulent concert tickets as well as, bogus cottage and apartment rentals in the Hamilton area. He appeared at the John Sopinka Courthouse on Thursday, March 7, 2019, to answer to fraud-related charges.

CHARGED

• Jacob Miranda, 27-years-of-age from Hamilton

CHARGES

• Identity fraud

• Fraud under $5000

• Fail to comply probation X3

Hamilton Police believe there may be other victims who have yet to come forward. As such be aware of online advertisements for “cottage or apartment rentals”. If you believe you may have been a victim of a similar scam, or have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Sergeant Greg Doerr by calling 905-546-3841.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

Hamilton Police would like to remind all potential online renters or buyers to protect themselves from fraudsters. The following tips are offered from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center to increase community awareness and lessen the likeliness of additional victims.

Vacation rental scams

Warning signs - How to protect yourself

•The ad doesn't give the exact address of the rental and the same property is listed several times with different contact people.

•Payment is requested via wire transfer, money order, or cashier's cheque. Credit cards are not accepted.

•If possible, ask to see the property before you pay for it. If not, verify the property exists.

•Do some research on the rental

In October 2018, the Hamilton Police Major Fraud Unit received a complaint regarding several accounting irregularities that had been discovered by Canadian Orpheus Male Choir executive.

It is alleged that between January 2016 and October 2018, the accused while volunteering as a Treasurer for Canadian Orpheus Male Choir misappropriated approximately $50,000 dollars.

Charged:

Mackenzie Jenkyns (male, 42-years-old) Hamilton resident

• Fraud over $5000
• Theft over $5000

Jenkyns was released with a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear before the court on Tuesday, December 18, 2018.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into this crime you are asked to contact Detective Kevin Dhinsa at 905-546-4526.

In June 2011, a class action law suit against a number of parties including the Ontario Provincial Police and the Province of Ontario was settled for $20 Million.

As plaintiff’s counsel, Mr. Findlay was responsible for the appropriate management and distribution of the settlement monies. After the original disbursements, there were approximately $2.2 million in reserve funds in 2013.

On May 29, 2017, Mr. Findlay reported himself to the Law Society of Ontario after having used the trust money.

John Wallace Findlay was charged with Criminal Breach of Trust, Theft Over $5000 and Fraud Over $5000. Mr. Findlay was released on a Promise to Appear and is scheduled to appear in court on September 25, 2018.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation, you are asked to contact Acting Detective Sergeant Kevin Dhinsa by calling (905) 546-4526.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com

In July 2017, the Hamilton Police Service Major Fraud Unit received a complaint from CUPE Local 786 regarding several accounting irregularities that had been discovered.

It is alleged that between January 2010 and March 2017, the union elected Treasurer had used union funds for personal benefit. CUPE Local 786 suffered a loss of approximately 1 million dollars.

Charged with one count of fraud over $5,000 and one count of theft over $5000 is Elizabeth MARCK (Female, 57 years) of Hamilton. MARCK was released with a promise to appear and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.

On June 24, 2018, shortly before 2:30 p.m., Hamilton Police were brought to the attention of an older style Volvo S40, exiting the parking lot at 1603 Main Street West, Hamilton. A routine traffic stop was conducted after police observed that the front plate had been altered. The driver was not able to provide proper vehicle or personal documentation. He was placed under arrest for, “use of plates not authorized”.

Police continued their investigation at the scene and located several stolen credit cards and personal identification.

The male has been charged with 62 criminal offences.

Charged:

Christopher Clapp (43-years) Scarborough resident.

• Several counts of Possession and use of traffic credit cards
• Several counts of Possess a Counterfeit Mark
• Obstruct Peace Officer
• Fraud Under $5000
• Several counts of Fail to Comply Probation
• Several counts of Identity Theft
• Possession of stolen property Under $5000

Clapp was held for a bail hearing and scheduled back to John Sopkina Courthouse on, July 3, 2018.

In this Business Email Compromise scam, employees of organizations responsible for finances or payments will be contacted by a high level executive requesting a rush payment for what is described as an urgent business need. The criminal can mimic all aspects of the “executives” email style and will often ask for the victim to not share the information with anyone else. Only after wiring large sums of money will the victim recognize they have been deceived. Unfortunately in many instances the money is sent abroad making it almost impossible to get the money back.

These attacks succeed because they rely on tricking employees into ignoring or bypassing basic security precautions.

Tips on protecting your business include;

• Develop, implement and test robust practices/policies that involve internal prevention techniques at all levels. No-one is immune.
• Use face-to-face or voice-to-voice communications to verify transactions. Walk into the CEO’s office or speak directly by phone. Don’t rely on e-mail alone.
• Limit what is posted on social media and company websites, especially job duties and descriptions, hierarchal information and out-of-office details.
• Employ two-factor authentication; have secondary sign-off for payments, especially significant ones.
• Be suspicious of requests for secrecy or pressure to act quickly.
• Consider registering all company domains slightly different than the company’s actual domain.

The list of frauds and scams is large and changes every day. The easiest way of combatting this crime is by not falling victim to it. FRAUD…Recognize It…Reject It…Report It.

“We’ve seen several counterfeit $100 notes lately with the holographic foil strip applied as a sticker, not embedded in the note as is the case in genuine notes. By running your fingernail across the holographic strip you can easily detect the edges of the sticker which, in some cases is peeling off. If you can feel the raised edges or the sticker is peeling off, the note is counterfeit” said Detective Dave Place.

Here are a few tips to help spot counterfeit bills:

• Feel the note. All Canadian and US currency is produced with raised ink on the shoulders of the portrait and elsewhere on the note. Run your fingernail over the shoulders of the portrait and you’ll feel the raised ink on a genuine note.

• Look at the note. The finish on a genuine note does not scrape off and the colour does not run when it gets wet. The holographic foil strip is embedded in the note, not added as a sticker, and does not peel off.

• Flip the note to see the features in the large window repeated in the same colours and detail on the other side. The transparent window contains a metallic portrait that matches the larger one on the face of the note and changes colour when tilted. The transparent window also contains small numbers that match the value of the note.

• The dollar value is hidden in the frosted maple leaf in the corner.

• On older notes, the holographic strip contains maple leaves that change colour when the note is tilted. This strip also contains small numbers that match the value of the note.

If you suspect a bank note is counterfeit, politely refuse to accept it. Advise the person to check the note with their bank and inform police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money.

It is alleged that the male was working while in receipt of Disability benefits yet failed to disclose his earnings as required. ODSP estimates an overpayment of $130,000 that they were not entitled to receive.

During the investigation it was revealed that the accused also forged documents for a mortgage application to enable the purchase of a house worth over $500,000 while purportedly existing on an O.D.S.P. income.

Rahaman Al Jabri, 48 years of Hamilton

Charges:

• Fraud over $5000

Shaymae Ali, 38 years of Hamilton

Charges:

• Fraud over $5000

Both are to appear in court on February 26th, 2018.

If you have information relating to Social Assistance or Disability fraud you can contact the Welfare Fraud Hotline at 1-800-394-7867 to remain anonymous, or the local ODSP general office line at 905-521-7280 and request to make a complaint.

Media Inquiries:

Detective Kevin Dhinsa - Major Fraud Unit

905-546-4526

kdhinsa@hamiltonpolice.on.ca

Detective Sergeant Greg Doerr - Major Fraud Unit

905-546-3841

gdoerr@hamiltonpolice.on.ca

Authority

Constable Lorraine Edwards #80 - Media Relations