Durham police allege several women were defrauded of more than $1 million through romantic relationships that began through social media, workplaces, gyms and a dog-training business.
The investigation began in November and focused on Salvatore Malandrino, 41, of Marmora. Police allege the conduct started during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and continued until 2025.
Women allegedly approached in several settings
Investigators say the women met the accused through social media, professional settings, local gyms and his Friendly K9 dog-training business. Police allege he developed emotional relationships and proposed long-term commitments while misrepresenting his finances and business ventures.
The women were allegedly persuaded to provide substantial amounts of money for purported investments, loans, business opportunities and personal financial emergencies.
Police further allege money obtained from one woman was used to make payments to another, allowing the scheme to continue.
Arrest made in Ajax
After investigators reviewed thousands of banking and financial records, police say they formed grounds to lay several fraud-related charges. Malandrino was arrested Monday in Ajax and remained in custody, according to the September 3 report.
He is charged with five counts of fraud over $5,000, laundering proceeds of crime, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, two counts of failing to comply with a release order and uttering a forged document.
The charges have not been proven in court. The accused is presumed innocent unless found guilty.
Police believe more victims may exist
Investigators say they are concerned other people may have been financially deceived in similar circumstances. Anyone who believes they were affected can contact Detective Constable Miglia of the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 2950.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Police emphasized that fraud victims are not responsible for the actions of people who deceive them.
