Ontario Provincial Police Uncover Security Guard Fraud Scheme

Three London residents have been charged following what the Ontario Provincial Police describe as a "complex fraud" related to falsifying records to place security guards in long-term care facilities.

The Investigation Details

On Tuesday, the OPP announced that charges were laid by its serious fraud office following an investigation that began in July 2024. Police say the investigation focused on the "falsification of eligibility documents" being provided on behalf of individuals to expedite their placement as security guards in long-term care facilities across Ontario.

The Charges and Accused

Three Londoners, ages 28, 22, and 34, are each charged with:

• Fraud over $5,000
• Uttering a forged document

The accused have been released from custody and are scheduled to appear in London court on January 15.

Collaborative Investigation

Police noted that officials from multiple agencies aided in the investigation, including:

• Ontario's long-term care ministry
• Solicitor-general's private security and investigative services branch
• Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC)

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to contact:

• OPP at 1-888-310-1122
• Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) for anonymous tips

Related Incidents in the Region

Weapons Investigation at London High School

In a separate incident, London police provided an update on a weapons investigation at Clarke Road secondary school. A 17-year-old boy has been charged with carrying a concealed weapon after officers responded to reports of a firearm at the school. Police seized a replica firearm and confirmed no injuries occurred.

Indecent Act Charge in Chatham-Kent

Chatham-Kent police charged a 33-year-old woman with committing an indecent act after she was found in a state of undress in the lobby of a downtown apartment complex. She has been released with conditions prohibiting her from returning to the building.

Implications for Job Seekers and Employers

This case highlights the importance of thorough background checks and verification of credentials in the security industry, particularly for positions in sensitive environments like long-term care facilities. Job seekers should be aware of fraudulent schemes that promise expedited placement through falsified documents, while employers must implement robust verification processes to ensure candidate qualifications are legitimate.