Durham Regional Police Services (DRPS) yesterday said it has charged two suspects following a lengthy fraud investigation in Durham Region.
Both of the accused parties were released on undertakings.
On November 18, the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit concluded an investigation involving fraudulent activity of an employee at an aggregate facility. It is alleged, the male suspect, who was an employee, provided aggregate material to a construction company and another aggregate operation. Fraudulent invoices were provided to these companies for the sale of the material. Payment was collected by the male suspect and deposited directly into a bank account held jointly with the female suspect. These funds were used to purchase and renovate at least one residence in Durham Region. Over $2 million was acquired by both of the accused parties between late 2016 through early 2021, said a police statement.
It is believed the fraudulent activity was limited to the aggregate operation, it added.
Jamie Showers, age 44, of York Region, was charged with: Fraud Over $5,000; Launder Proceeds of Crime; Possession of Property Obtained by Crime; Utter Forged Document and Drawing Document without Authority.
Michelle Langdon, age 43, of York Region, was charged with: Fraud Over $5,000; Launder Proceeds of Crime and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Taylor of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5283.
SOUND ON: If you hear this voice on the other end of the line please don't press 1 to speak to an "officer" – it is not an officer – it is a scammer! Do not send money / gift cards /money transfers or bitcoins! Just hang up. pic.twitter.com/Mwj8kIeMB4
— Durham Regional Police (@DRPS) November 26, 2021
DRPS warns residents of increase in fraud incidents
Members of the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit are advising the public of a significant increase in fraud incidents targeting residents of Durham Region.
Recently, members of the Financial Crimes Unit have seen a significant increase in fraud incidents targeting people from every age and background but the majority of the victims are elderly.
The fraud incidents include, but are not limited to:
- Requests for large scale gift card purchases, for funds to be sent for “injured or sick” family members.
- Extortion calls/emails claiming to be from law enforcement regarding “outstanding warrants for your arrest” and the requirement for payment to deal with the matter.
- Calls from someone claiming to be from Canada Border Services Agency or Service Canada advising that a package to you was intercepted containing illegal substances, or that there is illegal activity on your SIN card.
- The Romance Scam – victim develops a relationship with someone they have never met in person over social media. The interaction eventually leads to requests for money with promises that the funds will be returned when they finally get to meet. No meeting ever takes place.
- The Loan Scam – targets victims experiencing financial hardship. Applications are submitted online to fraudulent websites, with victims being told they have been approved. The suspects then demand the victim send payment upfront to cover administrative fees and “secure” the loan.
DRPS reminded residents not to provide any personal information over the phone and to never send money to anyone you do not know, whether that exchange is made in cash, cryptocurrency, e-transfer, wire transfer, or gift cards.
Staff at retail stores should also keep a watchful eye and explain to people buying a large quantity of gift cards that they are likely involved in a scam. The attached poster can be printed and posted in your business to help prevent your customers from becoming a victim of fraud.
If you are the victim of a fraud you can report it on DRPS’ website or call 905-579-1520.
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