MARCH 16, 2021 – The Lanark County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Lanark County Crime Unit have laid charges in a major fraud investigation which began in November 2019.
As a result of the initial complaint in Lanark County, the investigation into this incident led to the identification of over ten separate victims with a total reported financial loss of over $500,000. The complaints were in relation to deposits made for construction of tiny homes that were never built. Victims were from different jurisdictions across Ontario.
Richard WHEATLEY, age 61 of the Town of Carleton Place is charged under the Criminal Code with the following offences:
– Fraud over $5000 – nine counts
– Fraud under $5000
– Theft over $5000 – eight counts
– Theft under $5000
– Obstruct Peace Officer
The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on April 12, 2021.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims. If you have any information on the investigation, or believe you may have been a victim of a similar fraud, contact Lanark OPP at .1-888-310-1122