Police in Durham Region are asking for the public’s help in identifying a woman suspected of using counterfeit money at multiple retail locations across the region. The investigation, led by the Durham Regional Police Financial Crimes Unit, involves incidents that took place in Bowmanville, Oshawa and Ajax.
According to police, the incidents began on December 14, 2025, when a female suspect attended a Walmart store located at 2320 Durham Regional Highway 2 in Bowmanville. Investigators allege that she used four counterfeit $100 bills to complete a purchase at the store. The following day, the suspect is believed to have continued the scheme at other locations in Durham Region.
Police say the same individual later visited a Walmart in Oshawa, where she again used counterfeit $100 bills to make purchases. Shortly after, she reportedly attended another Walmart location in Ajax, where she returned the previously purchased items in exchange for legitimate Canadian currency. This method allowed the suspect to turn fake money into real cash, raising concerns among investigators about similar incidents.
Authorities believe the suspect deliberately targeted multiple stores across Durham Region using a consistent approach. The case has prompted police to warn local businesses to remain vigilant when handling large denomination bills, especially during busy retail periods.
The suspect is described as a Black female, approximately 25 to 35 years old, with a slim build and shoulder-length black hair. At the time of the incidents, she was seen wearing a beige New York Yankees toque, grey puffer vest, black long-sleeve shirt, black leggings and carrying a beige purse. Police are hoping that this detailed description will help members of the public identify her.
Investigators are now asking anyone who may recognize the suspect or who may have cellphone, dash cam or surveillance footage related to the incidents to come forward. Even small pieces of information could help advance the investigation and prevent further fraud.
Counterfeit currency remains a serious issue for retailers, as businesses often absorb the financial loss when fake bills are accepted. Police are reminding store employees and business owners to carefully check cash transactions and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact D/Cst. Kane of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5371. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online, where tipsters may be eligible for a reward.
Police continue to investigate and are working to determine whether the suspect may be connected to additional incidents within Durham Region or beyond.
