A North York woman who Waterloo regional police say defrauded seven victims across Ontario and Waterloo region out of over $1 million could have other victims who have yet to come forward.
Members of Waterloo Regional Police Service’s Investigative Services-Property and Financial Crime Unit arrested the woman last week and charged her with fraud over $5,000. This was a global charge as the investigation includes multiple victims from across Ontario.
The investigation began in October of last year, after police discovered a group of individuals working together who appeared to be targeting the equity held in the victims’ homes.
The group of individuals was believed to be targeting older adults in the community.
The woman is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 18.
Investigators believe there may be other victims and are asking anyone with information to contact police.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service wants to remind the public to be vigilant when receiving unsolicited phone calls or door-to door sales.
The following are safety tips to consider:
- Do not allow any door-to-door sales persons into your home unless you have sought them out for a specific purpose.
- Do not be confused by unsolicited phone calls offering free services or gifts.
- If a sales person is in your home and you do not feel comfortable, contact the police immediately.
- Speak with and educate vulnerable persons and seniors in your life to ensure they have not fallen victim to these types of companies and contracts.
- If you have already entered into a contract, a title search can be done on a property to identify any security interests (Liens) that may exist.
If at any point you believe that you may be a victim of door-to-door sales contracts, contact police immediately by calling 519-570-9777.
You can also file a report with the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services on the Government of Ontario website.
