On May 7, 2010, after a 16 month long criminal investigation, the RCMP Winnipeg Commercial Crime Section arrested and charged 41-year-old Carleton Bruce Ross of Winnipeg with internet fraud.
His arrest follows numerous complaints alleging Ross offered antique items or replicas thereof for sale on eBay and failed to provide those items once payment was received.
All the victims reside outside of Canada.
Carleton Bruce Ross has been charged with two counts of fraud over $5000 and five counts of fraud under $5000. The estimated value defrauded from the victims is just over $39,000.00 (US Funds). Ross was released on a recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court on June 9, 2010 in Winnipeg.
Police remind the public to be diligent when dealing with people and/or companies of unknown reliability over the Internet. Inquiries with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and PhoneBusters may provide valuable information before making purchases online.
Some simple tips to remember when using Internet sites such as eBay include:
• Learn as much as possible about the seller and the products being offered for sale.
• Ask about a Return Policy and use secure methods of payment.
• Do not wire or complete cash transfers.
• Do not provide personal banking information to an individual unless your are confident that the person is reliable and trustworthy to have such information.
If an offer seems suspicious or too good to be true, then it probably is.
The investigation continues.
Cpl. Scott MacPherson
“D” Division Commercial Crime Section
(204) 983-7248
