PUBLIC ASSISTANCE REQUESTED IN FRAUD INVESTIGATION
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(BRANT COUNTY, ON) - Brant County OPP are seeking public assistance following a reported fraud that occurred on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in the town of Paris.
Officers responded after a resident reported being defrauded during a private vehicle sale arranged through a Facebook Marketplace post. When two male buyers-who had been communicating with the seller by text-arrived at the seller’s home to inspect the car. During the viewing, one suspect spoke with the owner of the vehicle while the second examined the vehicle’s engine compartment. The suspect then moved to the rear underside of the vehicle. Moments later, the car was started and the engine suddenly began running roughly and emitting white smoke from the exhaust.
The suspects claimed the vehicle was no longer in good condition and refused to pay the agreed-upon price. After negotiating, the complainant ultimately accepted a significantly lower offer. After the vehicle was towed from the property, the victim counted the cash provided and discovered that they did not receive the full amount. It appears that the suspects tampered with the vehicle to intentionally damage it and reduce its value. The suspect descriptions are as follows:
Brant County OPP are reminding residents to remain vigilant when buying or selling items online. Sellers are encouraged to verify identities, conduct transactions in public locations when possible, and report any suspicious behavior.
Anyone in the Brant County area who has experienced a similar incident is asked to contact police.