Toronto man charged with 101 offences in connection with auto fraud investigation

Toronto police officers say a 43-year-old man has been charged with 101 criminal offences in connection with an auto fraud investigation.

According to a statement issued by the Toronto Police Service Saturday morning, the investigation began in July after 53 Division officers learned a suspect was “committing fraudulent vehicle transfers at ServiceOntario locations.”

Investigators said ServiceOntario staff helped determine the suspect was connected to multiple vehicle-related frauds as far back as November.

Officers didn’t elaborate further on the investigation and its findings.

The statement said Winkle Lejarde was arrested on Aug. 9 while a search warrant was executed.

Officers said the accused was charged with the following offences:

Investigators said they released a photo of the suspect as it’s believed there could be additional victims.

• 15 counts of uttering forged documents
• Nine counts of fraud over $5,000
• Nine counts of altering/removing a vehicle identification number
• Nine counts of forgery
• Nine counts of making a document without authority
• Nine counts of using a document without authority
• Nine counts of obtaining an instrument based on forgery
• Six counts of attempted fraud over $5,000
• Six counts of attempting to alter/remove a vehicle identification number
• Six counts of attempting to use a document without authority
• Six counts of attempting to obtain an instrument based on forgery
• Four counts of possessing a Schedule One substance for the purpose of trafficking
• Two counts of possessing an ID document of another person
• Possession of a Schedule One substance
• Possession of the proceeds of property obtained by crime

The allegations against the accused haven’t been proven in court. He appeared in court for a bail hearing on Thursday.

Meanwhile, officers urged potential buyers to obtain a vehicle history report. They said signs a vehicle could have altered vehicle identification numbers include sudden colour changes, a drop of odometer readings between owners, and indications a vehicle was previously exported out of Canada and the absence of an import certificate.

Investigators from @TPS53Div, Major Crime Unit, with the assistance of Service Ontario, arrested a man in connection with numerous vehicle-related frauds on August 9. A total of 101 charges have been laid.https://t.co/FP3Xry7XzV pic.twitter.com/MrTEKufocB

— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) August 17, 2024