Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Additional victims come forward and more charges have been laid in Colchester County District RCMP fraud investigation.
In early March, Colchester County District RCMP charged a man with Fraud Over $5000 and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000. The man is believed to engage in high-pressure sale tactics to convince people to pay for home security system monitoring and upgrades. Victims are convinced to make payments via cash, e-transfers, or cheques, and do not receive the goods and services they paid for.
At that time, investigators had identified 15 victims and believed there were others. On March 13 the Nova Scotia RCMP published a news release about the incidents and resulting charges, Ongoing fraud investigation results in charges by Colchester County District RCMP | Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Between that date and May 6, an additional 17 victims came forward.
Investigators resubmitted the Fraud and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime charges to include a total of 32 victims.
On June 3, Colchester County District RCMP responded to a report that Brian Dethridge, 54, of Truro, breached his release conditions by engaging in the sale of home security system monitoring and upgrades.
On June 4, Colchester County District RCMP arrested and charged Detheridge with Failure to Comply With Undertaking (three counts). He appeared in Truro Provincial Court and was released on strict conditions.
“I commend these victims and others who’ve come forward to police because I know that victims of frauds can feel awkward or embarrassed and are hesitant to report their experience as a result,” says Cpl. Terry Brown, Community Action Team leader. “It’s important for victims to know, we will follow up on their report.”
Anyone who has been a victim of this fraud and anyone who has information about it is asked to contact Colchester County District RCMP at 902-893-6820, or the local police. To remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.
For more information about common frauds and how to protect yourself: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
File #s 2025-767494, 2025-585384, 2025-606928