Swindling suspect moves east

A man suspected of swindling thousands of dollars from local seniors could be the same person Toronto police are now looking for.

Toronto Police contacted the Thunder Bay Police Service and asked if they had investigated a fraud case similar to one they are now looking into.

Local police looked for a man two years ago who coerced seniors into giving him money. Officers reported that the man would claim that he could provide income tax services.

Chris Adams, executive officer with Thunder Bay Police Services, said the suspect in the 2008 fraud schemes seemed to fit the description and method of what the Toronto police are now looking for.

"The individual we released to the media back in 2008 is certainly similar in description to the individual that Toronto police are dealing with," Adams said. "At this point we can only classify that person in Toronto as a possible suspect."

Adams said seniors who have dementia or Alzheimer’s are an easier target. The suspect stole more than $5,000 from seniors.

Adams said it is difficult to get accurate numbers because not all seniors come forward.
"Seniors feel embarrassed sometimes when they have been mislead and taken advantage of," he said.