Halton police charge online dating scammer who defrauded Canadians of $370K

A Mississauga man is facing charges in connection with an online dating scam that victimized an Oakville resident of approximately $70,000.

In January 2019, Halton police started an investigation surrounding a suspect who would initiate and maintain contact with his victims through email and text, establish trust through this remote relationship and convince them to transfer money.

Investigators were able to identify the suspect after learning of several other victims across Canada.

The suspect used a number of false identities and targeted older people, with reported losses totaling nearly $370,000.

The Regional Fraud Unit executed a search warrant on March 17, 2022 and arrested Toju Ariri, 34, of Mississauga.

Ariri was charged with six counts of fraud over $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

Police said Ariri was operating under multiple names, including Dante Leonardo, Sean Bruno and Jason Roberto. However, investigators said Ariri used similar pictures when creating these false dating profiles.

Officers believe more people may have been victimized.

Anyone with information can contact the fraud unit with Halton police at 905-825-4747 ext. 8741.