News release

Holyrood RCMP charges man in Facebook Marketplace scam

March 31, 2026 - Holyrood, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

Content

Police in Holyrood have charged a 24-year-old Ontario man with fraud following an investigation into a Facebook Marketplace scam. 

In November 2025, Holyrood RCMP received a report from an individual who paid a deposit via e-transfer for a purchase from Facebook Marketplace and believed they were the victim of an online scam. The police investigation found the social media account and email address associated with the transaction were connected with other suspicious online activity. 

Officers tracked the activity and located the suspect in Windsor, Ontario and charged him with one count of fraud less than or equal to $5,000. 

The 24-year-old man was issued a summons to appear in Provincial Court in St. John’s in June 2026. 

It’s estimated that only 5 to 10% of all fraud and cybercrime incidents are currently reported in Canada, likely because of embarrassment, fear of reputational damage, or a lack of awareness of what resources are out there. As we reach the end of Fraud Prevention Month, RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador reminds all residents that you are never alone in the fight against cybercrime, scams and fraud.

If you believe you are the victim of a fraud or scam, please contact your local police detachment to make a report. You can find your RCMP detachment at rcmp.ca/en/nl/detachments. 

Cybercrime and fraud are serious criminal offences. Anyone who commits fraud or a cybercrime could face real consequences, including potential jail time, a criminal record, and limitations on travel and employment. To learn more about scams and frauds and how to take action to report and protect yourself, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Background: https://rcmp.ca/en/nl/news/2025/12/4348735

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