Sarnia Police Service officials allege: Sarnia police say a months-long fraud investigation has led to charges after a local business owner lost more than $119,000 in an alleged scheme involving a fictitious supplier.
The investigation began after the business owner reported in January that they had transferred $119,475 through three transactions to purchase specialized equipment advertised by what appeared to be a legitimate supplier.
Police later determined the purchase order, website and equipment were fraudulent.
Investigators alleged the Canadian bank accounts receiving the funds had been opened using fake identities and fraudulent identification, with activity linked to the Toronto area.
On June 16, officers from the Sarnia Police Service, assisted by Toronto police and Canada Border Services Agency officers, executed a search warrant at a Toronto residence.
Police said they seized Canadian and U.S. currency, dozens of bank cards, electronic devices, jewellery, luxury watches and fraudulent documents and identification.
A 34-year-old Toronto resident has been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and obstructing a peace officer.
Police said a warrant has also been requested for a 29-year-old Toronto resident on the same charges.
Investigators said evidence gathered during the probe may be shared with other police agencies for further investigation into alleged offences in other jurisdictions.
