NEWS RELEASE
HAMILTON POLICE SERVICE
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Hamilton Police Financial Crimes Unit has made a significant arrest in an extensive auto fraud and identity theft investigation, leading to charges against a London man.
In March 2024, investigators launched an investigation into fraudulent vehicle purchases involving stolen identities. The suspect, employed as a sales representative at a local dealership, used his position to fraudulently acquire 14 high-end vehicles. These purchases, made between November 2023 and March 2024, resulted in over $1.5 million in losses for the dealership and financial institutions.
The victims of the identity theft were unaware that loans had been taken out in their names to finance these purchases. Most of the vehicles have been exported out of the country or re-registered with new Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), with only one vehicle recovered so far.
On Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, Financial Crimes Unit officers arrested 44-year-old Shelton Mark Gregouire of London.
He has been charged with the following offences:
- 14 counts of fraud over $5,000
- four counts of fraud under $5,000
- 23 counts of identity theft
- 14 counts of obtaining credit by fraud
- nine counts of attempted credit by fraud
- 23 counts of uttering forged documents
Shelton Gregouire is scheduled to appear in court at a future date.
This investigation remains active, and further arrests are expected.
Hamilton Police urge community members to regularly monitor their credit reports and scores to ensure all debts are accounted for and to stay vigilant against identity theft. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately.
Anyone with information that may assist in this ongoing investigation is urged to contact Detective Angela Abrams of the Hamilton Police Service Financial Crimes Unit at 905-546-4603.
For those wishing to provide information anonymously, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit tips online.
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