RCMP Charge Six in an Alleged Investment Scam

LONDON, ON, Sept. 10 /CNW/ - As a result of a lengthy investigation dubbed project "Ocorners", the London RCMP Detachment Commercial Crime Section has charged six individuals in relation to a fraud estimated to be over $300,000.

The RCMP alleges that two companies known as Carlant Holdings Ltd. from the British Virgin Islands and Themed Technological Innovations (TTI) of Toronto, Ontario were used to defraud over $300,000 from two local area investors.

It is further alleged that the victims were led to believe that they were investing in the development of entertainment centres. To entice the investors, they were promised a high end return of 40% in a few months. It is believed that the funds were then diverted to the personal use of those charged.

    
    Charged with fraud over $5000 are:
        Matthew Sherban, age 50 of Toronto, Ontario
        Peter Snyder, age 51 of Woodstock, Ontario
        Judith Soderstrom, age 60 of Toronto, Ontario
        Lars Soderstrom, age 58 of Mississauga, Ontario
        Peter Turcaj, age 51 of Toronto, Ontario
    

An arrest warrant for the same offence has been issued for a sixth individual identified as Richard Hughes, age 56 of Kitchener, Ontario.

"Investors are cautioned to look for warning signs such as guaranteed high interest returns in short periods of time, the promotion of off-shore trading programs and the use of promissory notes," stated Inspector Dwight Blok, Officer in Charge of the RCMP London Detachment.

First appearance is scheduled for October 12, 2010 at the London Courthouse.

For further information: Cpl. D'Arcy Cartier, Commercial Crime Section, London Detachment, RCMP "O" Division, Office: [phone] ext. 238