Wood Buffalo RCMP lay charges in lengthy fraud investigation

September 1, 2026 - Fort McMurray, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

Content

Fort McMurray, Alta. – On Apr. 22, 2024, Wood Buffalo RCMP received a report of fraud that alleged a suspect had approached potential investors between 2022 and 2024 for a sports training and clothing company but failed to register the company or begin any production. Wood Buffalo RCMP General Investigation Section, with assistance from the Wood Buffalo RCMP Financial Crimes Unit, conducted a lengthy investigation that established over $160,000 was defrauded from investors.  

During the investigation, the suspect left Fort McMurray and was found to have relocated to Airdrie. On Aug. 24, 2026, with the assistance of Airdrie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, the suspect was arrested without incident. 

A 36-year-old resident of Airdrie, is facing charges:

• 10 counts of Fraud over $5,000
• Two counts of False pretenses 

The individual was held for a Judicial Interim Release hearing and has since been released from police custody. They are set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on Sept. 16, 2026. 

“We’re fortunate we have a dedicated Financial Crimes Unit locally, allowing officers with specialized training and skills to focus their expertise and resources on serious and complex financial crimes. These types of investigations can be lengthy, multifaceted and time consuming. It’s an asset to our community to have a dedicated unit with the ability to reach a conclusion such as in this investigation.” says Inspector Mike Robinson, Investigative Services Officer, Wood Buffalo RCMP. 

Wood Buffalo RCMP encourage anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud to report it to police. If you have been the victim of fraud, report it to your local law enforcement agency and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca, or by calling 1-888-495-8501. RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

Contacts