The Greater Sudbury Police Service would like to remind business owners to be vigilant with regards to phone purchases using credit cards.

On June 17th, 2024, the Greater Sudbury Police Service was contacted by a local car dealership in relation to a fraudulent transaction made by a customer totalling over $17,000.

The suspect also made a second attempt at a fraudulent purchase totalling over $19,000.

Just before 1:00 p.m. on June 19th, 2024, Officers intercepted the suspect at the local dealership upon his arrival to complete the second transaction.

The man was arrested without incident and was found to be in possession of fraudulent identification.

His true identity was confirmed via police identification records. 39-year old Gabriel Corneau, who resides out of province with no fixed address, has been charged with the following offences under the Criminal Code of Canada:

  • Fraud Over $5,000
  • Possess Forged Document with Intent

Gabriel Corneau was held in police custody overnight and attended Bail Court today, June 20th, 2024, to answer to the charges.

We advise businesses to take proactive measures with large purchases taken over the phone with credit cards. Some tips include:

  • Place a hold for a few days until the payment clears;
  • Contact the credit card company directly;
  • Remember to get the name, expiration date and 3-digit code off the card;
  • Check for ID;
  • Check for other steps your loss prevention may have in regard to preventing scams.

We also encourage community members to protect yourselves from credit card fraud. Credit card fraud occurs when someone steals or uses your credit card/credit card information without your knowledge and/or permission.

If you lost money from a scam (under $5,000), report it to GSPS online.

If the fraud exceeds $5,000, report it to us via our non-emergency line at 705-675-9171.

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