A Falcon Beach RCMP investigation triggered by a June 2013 report, resulted in a local business owner being charged in connection with three separate fraud reports between 2010 and 2013.
In June 2013, the owner of a construction business in Falcon Lake reported a break-in at his place of business. Falcon Beach RCMP were advised that construction equipment, including a long list of tools, had allegedly been stolen.
After an extensive investigation, Falcon Beach RCMP recovered several construction-related tools and equipment. The investigation showed that many of the items recovered including welders, drills, a table saw – to name a few – were never stolen. The items had been reported stolen to both the RCMP and the insurance company. The value of the items fraudulently reported stolen is estimated at about $500,000.
A closer look to past reports revealed two prior reports of thefts had been filed by this individual with the police.
In September 2010, a pick-up truck, with an estimated value of about $28,000, was reported stolen. As a matter of course, an insurance claim was also filed, however, RCMP investigation revealed that the vehicle had never been stolen. The pick-up truck has since been recovered by the RCMP.
In December 2012, a hot tub with an estimated value of $12,000 was reported stolen from his cottage in Falcon Lake. Again, an insurance claim was filed. The investigation showed that the hot tub was never stolen. It has since been located.
RCMP report that 37-year-old Colin Durward of Oakbank, has been charged with three counts of fraud over $5,000 and three counts of public mischief. Durward is scheduled to appear in Steinbach Court on October 10, 2013.
Anyone with information on this matter is asked to contact the Falcon Beach RCMP at 204-349-8035.
