A Toronto man is facing multiple fraud charges after attempting to fraudulently transfer vehicle ownerships at a Service Ontario location in Whitby.
Durham Regional Police responded to a fraud in progress call at the Service Ontario on Dundas Street in Whitby on the afternoon of Thursday, May 28. A man had visited the location and attempted to register several vehicles not registered in his name to a third party.
Investigators say the accused had already completed several transactions that have since been deemed fraudulent before officers arrived at the scene. The full scope of the fraud is still being investigated, and police believe additional fraudulent transactions may have taken place at other Service Ontario locations across the Greater Toronto Area.
Menis Milhalaiche, 52, of Toronto has been charged with two counts of fraud over $5,000, two counts of uttering forged documents, and attempted fraud.
The accused was released on an Undertaking following his arrest and is expected to appear in court at a later date.
Durham Police are encouraging anyone with information about this or similar incidents to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been approached with similar fraudulent vehicle registration schemes or who may have had their personal information used without consent in connection with vehicle transfers.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Taylor of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5283.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
This investigation highlights ongoing concerns about vehicle-related fraud across the Greater Toronto Area, with Service Ontario locations being targeted by individuals attempting to transfer ownership of vehicles using forged or fraudulent documentation. Vehicle fraud schemes can involve stolen identities, falsified bills of sale, and counterfeit permits.
Police are reminding residents to be vigilant when buying or selling vehicles privately and to verify all documentation through official channels before completing any transactions. Anyone who suspects they may have been a victim of vehicle registration fraud is encouraged to contact their local police service immediately.
