The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Cyber-enabled Fraud Team is currently investigating an alarming surge in cryptocurrency investment scams that have resulted in victims losing hundreds of thousands of dollars. The public is urged to exercise extreme caution when dealing with online investments, particularly those involving digital currencies.
Authorities have identified several fraudulent websites that lure unsuspecting investors with promises of high returns on cryptocurrency investments. Once the victims transfer their funds, they find themselves unable to recover their money, as the investments turn out to be fake.
“If you or someone you know has had dealings with these websites, please contact your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center at 1-888-495-8501 or visit antifraudcenter.ca,” the OPP advised in a recent statement.
To protect oneself from such scams, the OPP emphasizes the importance of due diligence. “Once you send your crypto, it is gone. Government agencies do not accept cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research, ask questions, and be skeptical of any investment opportunities that seem too good to be true,” the OPP warned.
East Algoma OPP Takes Action Against Impaired Driving
In a separate incident, the East Algoma OPP has laid its 27th impaired driving charge of 2024. On July 9, shortly after 9:30 p.m., officers responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle at the Spanish Marina. Upon arrival, police found a pick-up truck with its engine running and the driver asleep at the wheel.
After waking the driver, officers detected the smell of alcohol and conducted further tests, which confirmed impairment. The driver, identified as 54-year-old Corey Stolar from Spanish, was subsequently arrested and charged with operation while impaired—blood alcohol concentration (80 plus).
Stolar is scheduled to appear in Elliot Lake Court on August 8. In the meantime, he has been issued a 90-day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension, and his pick-up truck has been impounded for seven days.
The OPP continues to stress the importance of reporting suspected impaired drivers. “If you suspect an impaired driver, call 911 and don’t hesitate to ‘MAKE THE CALL’,” they urged.
Both incidents highlight the ongoing efforts of the Ontario Provincial Police to protect the public from financial fraud and impaired driving. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
As scams and impaired driving incidents continue to pose significant risks, the OPP remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of Ontario residents through proactive enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
