Officers Arrest Two in Local Fraud Operation

On January 14, 2021, members of the Sarnia Police Service Investigation Branch entered into an investigation regarding a complaint received from a banking institution pertaining to fraudulent banking activity locally.

As the investigation evolved it was determined that the suspects in this matter had opened various accounts via different banks and had also used the identity of an individual to commit these frauds. Unfortunately, the victim, who is from out of town, was unaware that this was going on until he was contacted by the Sarnia Police.

Information revealed that the suspects resided in Sarnia and police were able to determine their address.

On March 10, 2021, at approximately 11:30 AM, officers from the Criminal Investigations Branch, Community Patrol Branch, and the COPPS Unit conducted a search warrant at a residence in the 300 block of East Street South. Various items were seized as evidence which in turn led to the arrest of the two suspects. As the male suspect was being arrested he became combative towards the officers and began to struggle. After a brief struggle officers regained control of the male who continued to resist. A female was also taken into custody, in relation to this investigation, without incident.

Officers seized computers, cell phones, and a number of fraudulent pieces of identification including credit cards, Military ID cards, and a First Nation Status card. Also seized was a 2021 Cadillac CTG, that is believed to have been purchased with funds fraudulently obtained. The vehicle had been purchased 12 days earlier for over $60,000.

Other items that were fraudulently purchased were also seized as evidence.

The following two suspects were arrested as part of this investigation and face the following charges:

1. Dustin Ray Bedard, 32 years of age, of Sarnia faces the following charges:
   1. Fraud under $5000
   2. Possession of property obtained by crime – under $5000
   3. Possession of property obtained by crime – over $5000
   4. Two counts of possession of a credit card
   5. Identity theft – obtain or possess another person’s identity information
   6. Resist peace officer
   7. Unlawful use of Military Uniforms – has in his possession a certificate
2. Shannon Dawn Algar, 34 years of age, of Sarnia faces the following charges:
   1. Fraud over $5000
   2. Possession of property obtained by crime – under $5000
   3. Possession of property obtained by crime – over $5000
   4. Identity Fraud

Shannon Algar was released on an undertaking with a first appearance date of May 18, 2021, at approximately 9:30 AM, at the Sarnia Lambton Court House located on 700 Christina Street North.

Dustin Bedard is being held pending a bail hearing.

The investigation continues and further charges may be pending.

Constable Giovanni Sottosanti

Media Officer

Tel: 519-344-8861 Ext 6168

Email: 168@police.sarnia.on.ca