An Oshawa elder fraud investigation has resulted in charges after an elderly Ajax woman allegedly suffered financial losses of more than $400,000, according to Durham Regional Police.
Police said West Division officers first went to a home near Windsor Avenue and Elm Street in Ajax on October 7, 2023. The visit was a well-being check prompted by concerns about the woman’s welfare and possible elder abuse.
Specialized police unit investigated reported losses
Information provided by the woman led the DRPS Older Adult Support Investigative Services Unit, known as OASIS, to begin an investigation into allegations of fraud and theft.
Investigators said the lengthy inquiry determined that the woman’s financial losses exceeded $400,000. Police arrested a suspect without incident on September 29, 2026.
Christos Charalambous of Oshawa is charged with theft over $5,000, fraud over $5,000 and possession of proceeds obtained by crime over $5,000. He was released on an undertaking.
The charges are allegations and have not been proven in court.
Police ask potential additional victims to come forward
Durham police said investigators are concerned there could be other victims. The service released a photograph of the accused as part of its public appeal.
Anyone with information can contact the DRPS OASIS unit. Anonymous information may also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers.
The Oshawa elder fraud case is the latest local investigation to highlight financial risks faced by older adults. Police did not disclose the relationship between the accused and the woman or provide further details about how the alleged losses occurred.
