Niagara Regional Police say they have been investigating a case of rental property fraud in Thorold since November 2021.
Investigation revealed that the suspect, often using the fake name “Chris Jenkins”, would seek out individuals online that were looking for an apartment to rent, show them a residence, and then have them sign a fraudulent lease agreement with a down payment.
In the days leading up to the agreed upon move in date, the suspect would then advise the victims that they can no longer move in and he cannot refund their money.
Several victims have now come forward to police and on Friday, January 21, 2022, Mark Christopher Cipparone (39 years of age) of Thorold was arrested and charged with the following offences of:
Fraud Over $5000
Fraud Under $5000 (2 counts)
As a result of the continued investigation, detectives charged CIPPARONE with the additional charges of Fraud Under $5000 (2 Counts)
Cipparone was held in custody pending a bail hearing that took place on Saturday, January 22, 2022 and the investigation remains on going by detectives with the Central Fraud Unit.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905-688-4111, ext. 1009352.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
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