A Brighton man wanted in connection with alleged incidents of fraud and theft has been arrested, say Northumberland OPP.
On Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, at about 8:15 p.m., police said they responded to a report of fraud where the complainant advised a person allegedly entered their residence on Prince Edward Street in Brighton where the individual proceeded to demand money for work that was not completed nor requested.
Police said they located a person matching the description provided nearby and they were taken into custody.
The accused was wanted in relation to a number of incidents regarding fraud and theft in Brighton, the first of which occurred in June 2023, reported OPP.
According to police, in May 2024, the individual was allegedly unlawfully in a dwelling and took Canadian currency under false pretenses.
On two occasions in November 2024, the person wanted money for work that wasn’t completed at each address, said police.
Two more incidents of fraud were reported to OPP on Dec. 2, 2024, where the victim advised that over the previous week, they were twice intimidated into providing money for work or services not wanted, reported OPP.
As a result of the investigation, police said Thomas Payne, 40, of Brighton, was held for bail to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg on the following charges: Theft over $5,000, theft under $5,000, two counts of unlawfully in a dwelling, failure to comply with an undertaking, four counts of fraud under $5,000, and failure to comply with a release order – other than to attend court.
None of these allegations or charges have been proven in court.
Police are reminding residents to only allow access to your property to people that you trust.
OPP also recommend asking for photo identification, getting the name of the person and of the company or business they represent.
“Don’t feel pressured into making a quick decision and take time to do some research into the person providing the products or service and never hand over money unless you’ve personally approved the work.”
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501, said police.
If not a victim but an attempt was made, still report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. More information is available online.
