Ontario pastor accused in alleged fraud targeting homelessness prevention program

A pastor is accused of playing a key role in a fraud targeting a municipal program for people in York Region who are homeless or at risk of becoming so.

Police say the Regional Municipality of York reported fraud in its homelessness prevention program a year ago.

An investigation found nearly $100,000 had been fraudulently claimed between January and December 2024.

Police say 15 suspects have now been charged, and a Vaughan pastor is considered the main suspect.

Police allege the 38-year-old, who was a pastor at Miracle Arena for All Nations until last year, used his position to recruit others to take part in the frauds.

Investigators say the suspects in the case have been charged with fraud-related offences.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 14, 2026.

The Canadian Press