Northumberland OPP say they’ve made an arrest in a contract fraud investigation.
On June 30, 2023, OPP recorded a complaint relating to an alleged fraud that occurred at a residential property on Old Wooler Road in the Municipality of Brighton, said police, in a release issued Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024.
Police said the complainant advised that towards the end of October 2022, $30,000 was paid to the contractor to complete work at the location.
However, the individual allegedly discontinued, left existing renovations unfinished and their whereabouts was unknown to the caller, reported OPP.
Efforts to resolve the matter were undertaken by the victim prior to making a report to police, added OPP.
An investigation was initiated where a person was identified and a warrant was sought for their arrest. As a result, on Aug. 27, 2024, officers said they arrested the individual wanted in connection with the incident.
As a result of the investigation, a 30-year-old from St. Catharines was charged with fraud over $5,000, reported OPP.
This charge has not been proven in court.
The accused is due to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg at a future date.
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police service and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501, stressed police.
If not a victim but an attempt was made, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre regardless. More information is also available via the centre’s website.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
