Two Hamilton residents face 141 charges in fraud investigation

UPDATED

A man and woman are facing a total of 141 charges in connection with a massive fraud investigation.

Police say they launched an identity theft investigation back in July 2018 after 31-year-old Joshua Virag was arrested for allegedly carrying several fake IDs, credit cards and cheques.

A warrant was issued for his arrest after he failed to appear in court.

In March 2019, a search warrant was executed at a home on the east mountain where police believed Virage was living. Officers did not locate Virag but seized identification, payment cards, and other property during their search. Sixty-six charges were laid against Bobbi-Jo Reichheld. Police say the 34-year-old woman refused to turn herself into police and officers could not locate her.

Last Thursday, a second search warrant was executed at the same home and police arrested Reichheld and Virag. Officers seized more identification and banking information during their search.

They are facing 71 and 70 charges respectively including multiple counts of identity theft, identity fraud, and possession of property obtained by crime.

Both accused had their bail opposed and are still in custody.

Investigators say roughly 100 victims have suffered financial loss and had their personal credit rating affected by this criminal activity.

Police are reminding residents that if they learn their bank account or credit card account has been compromised, to call police and file a report.

Anyone with additional information that could help police is asked to contact Det. Angela Abrams at 905-546-4603.