Hamilton (January 21, 2020) – The police arrested two Hamilton identity fraudsters in connection with a number of identity theft and fraud related offenses. In a press release, the police report of about 100 victims to date. Bobbi-Jo Reichheld and Joshua Virag are facing a total amount of 141 charges for their ‘fraudulent lifestyle’. The charges include Fraud Over $5,000, Identity Theft and Fraud, Unauthorized Possession of a Credit Card, and Possession of Counterfeit Mark.
Hamilton police arrested Bobbi-Jo Reichheld (34) and Joshua Virag (31) as a result of an 18-month investigation related to a number of identity theft and fraud related offenses. The two alleged Hamilton identity fraudsters are facing a total of 141 charges in connection with their ‘fraudulent lifestyle’ according to the police press release from January 21.
Identity theft investigation
Hamilton Police Major Fraud Detectives began their investigation in July 2018. Hence, in March 2019, the authorities executed the first search warrant on an east mountain residence in Hamilton. Subsequently, the police seized identification documents, payment cards as well as property and laid charges against the duo.
Further investigation led to a second search warrant at the same Hamilton property, which was executed on January 16 of this year. In doing so, the police seized more property, identification documents, and banking information.
Read more: Two Quebec residents arrested for multiple identity fraud charges in New Brunswick
Based on the seized material, the police assume that about 100 victims suffered financially from the criminal activity of the two Hamilton identity fraudsters.
141 charges laid against the two Hamilton identity fraudsters
A total of 141 charges were laid against the fraudulent duo including Fraud Over $5,000, Identity Theft and Fraud, Unauthorized Possession of a Credit Card, and Possession of Counterfeit Mark. Reichheld, the woman from Hamilton, is facing 71 charges and Virag, who has no fixed address, is facing 70 charges. ‘The public is reminded that if they learn their bank account or credit card account has been compromised, to call police and file a report,’ urged the Hamilton police in their release.
Anyone who has information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Detective Angela Abrams by calling 905-546-4603. To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit anonymous tips online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com.
