The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) was cited as one of the agencies that assisted the Lethbridge Police Service in a multi-jurisdiction investigation into identity fraud and forged identification documents, which resulted in charges against five individuals. The investigation began in fall 2023 after a search warrant at a Lethbridge home led to the seizure of hundreds of forged identity documents and equipment used to manufacture IDs, with many documents linked to identity theft victims from multiple provinces. Police alleged the group used the stolen identities to attend financial institutions across southern Alberta and fraudulently open bank accounts, credit cards, loans and other accounts, and to obtain and register high-end vehicles. Additional warrants in Calgary and Edmonton led to further seizures of forged IDs and financial documents, and police also identified alleged crimes in other jurisdictions, including an Ontario grandparent scam; partner agencies included the Calgary Police Service, Edmonton Police Service and Halton Regional Police Service. All accused have made first court appearances and remain before the court at various stages of proceedings.
Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada 2025-02-04
Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada supported police investigation leading to five charges for identity fraud and forged documents
FINTRAC assisted the Lethbridge Police in a multi-jurisdictional identity fraud investigation, charging five individuals. Hundreds of forged identity documents and equipment were linked to victims across provinces. The accused allegedly used stolen identities for financial fraud and other crimes, with further seizures and alleged crimes in Calgary, Edmonton, and Ontario.