Winkle Lejarde (pictured) of Toronto is facing more than 100 charges as part of an auto fraud and ‘reVINing’ investigation by a division of the Toronto Police Service.
In a statement, the Toronto Police Service said: “In July 2024, investigators of 53 Division, Major Crime Unit received information about a man committing fraudulent vehicle transfers at Service Ontario locations.
“With the assistance of Service Ontario, it was determined that the man was responsible for numerous vehicle-related frauds dating back to November 2023.”
Officers from 53 Division executed a search warrant under the Criminal Code on August 9, leading to the arrest of the 43-year-old.
The following are the charges against Lejarde:
Authorities suspect there may be additional victims of these fraudulent activities and asked those with information to contact police at 416-808-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
The public is also advised to obtain and thoroughly review a vehicle history report to avoid purchasing a stolen or reVINed vehicle.
Red flags on these reports may include unexplained changes in the vehicle’s colour, a decrease in odometer readings between owners, or records showing the vehicle was previously exported without an import certificate upon its return to Canada.
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