Three men and one woman have been charged with conspiracy to commit an indictable offence and several other offences in connection with an investigation into financial irregularities amounting to more than three million dollars.
In March 2021, the West District RCMP began an investigation into financial crimes following a report from a business with allegations of fraud against several employees. Through a lengthy investigation, police discovered that the employees made unauthorized purchases of bare copper wire through the company dating back to November 2012. Once received, they would sell the copper wire to a local salvage dealer, who purchased it knowing it was acquired illegally.
On June 7, 2022, members of the West District RCMP executed search warrants at two residences and one business in connection with the investigation. A 45-year-old woman from Cummings Cove, a 49-year-old man from Back Bay, a 75-year-old man from Pennfield, and a 56-year-old man from Bonny River, were all arrested. They were later released pending a future court appearance.
On August 25, Patrick Brennan, Andy Peters, Melanie Pirie, and Leonard Totten, were each charged with one count of:
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
- Fraud over $5,000
- Possession of property obtained by crime
- Laundering proceeds of crime
All four individuals are scheduled to appear in Saint John Provincial Court on October 12.
"Our members worked diligently on this complex file, and were able to gather the evidence needed to support the charges that were laid," says Cpl. Dan Sharpe with the West District RCMP. "We encourage anyone who is purchasing salvaged parts or metals to ensure the product has been legally acquired."
The public plays an important role in helping to reduce, prevent and solve crime. If you have information about or suspect fraudulent or stolen goods, or if you have been a victim of fraud, please contact your local police. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.
The investigation is ongoing.