JANUARY 6, 2021 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to limiting the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. Since March, travel restrictions have been in place for all but essential travel and trade. The CBSA continues to be vigilant and applies the current travel restrictions to all persons seeking entry to Canada accordingly.
On June 23, Lyell Sullivan Buttermore, a foreign national, sought entry to Canada at the Lansdowne port of entry. During his examination, Mr. Buttermore reported that he was seeking entry for essential work and presented a letter to support his claim. Border services officers were quick to note inaccuracies in the documentation. Through additional questioning, officers determined that Mr. Buttermore had forged the employment document and was actually seeking entry to visit his girlfriend.
He was arrested and charged for attempting to bypass current border restrictions and enter Canada with the help of forged documents. On December 8, 2020, Mr. Buttermore plead guilty to immigration misrepresentation and was sentenced in the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville.
On December 11, Mr. Buttermore was sentenced to a conditional discharge with 12 months of probation, the terms of which include payment of a $2,000 donation to the Lanark and Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health Services.
Quotes
“Our officers ensure that those who are granted entry into Canada are complying with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and current border restrictions. Intercepting those who misrepresent themselves is important to protecting the health and safety of Canadians as well as maintaining the integrity of our borders and immigration processes.”
– Stephanie Chenier, Director, Enforcement and Intelligence Operations Division, Northern Ontario Region, Canada Border Services Agency
Quick facts
· The Canada-U.S. temporary border restriction put in place on March 21 at 12:01 am EDT continues. All discretionary/optional travel remains prohibited and the restriction can be prolonged as necessary for public health reasons.
· For information on current border measures and requirements during COVID-19, visit the CBSA website or call the CBSA’s information line 1-800-461-9999.
· The CBSA is responsible for enforcing the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and investigates and prosecutes cases where there is evidence of violations.
· Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious immigration activities to the CBSA by calling 1-888-502-9060.