Calgary, AB,
27
August
2015
|
07:25
America/Denver

Odometer Rollback Fraud Investigation

Four people have been arrested and charged by the Calgary Police Service Economic Crimes Unit following an investigation into odometer rollback fraud.

On Friday, April 10, 2015, police began an investigation into a group of people who were rolling back odometers of high mileage vehicles, then reselling them with low mileage to unsuspecting buyers. At least 15 victims believed they were purchasing dependable, safe vehicles and paid more for the low mileage vehicles they thought they were receiving. In reality, the vehicles had 50 to 70 per cent more kilometers than advertised and were often in need of major mechanical repair.

The group that is believed to have committed these frauds is made up of a common-law couple and two brothers. The husband in the common-law couple is believed to be responsible for frauds dating back to June 2013, while the brothers joined in on the frauds in April of 2015.

On Thursday, Aug. 6, 2015, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the 0-100 block of Rocky Ridge Circle N.W.  The following items were seized:

  • Odometer rollback devices
  • Diagnostic equipment
  • Bill of sale documents
  • $10,000 cash
  • License plates
  • Driver’s licenses not belonging to those in the residence
  • Bear spray
  • A baton

Damian FUNK, 25, has been charged with seven counts of fraud over $5,000, and nine counts of fraud under $5,000. He will next appear in court in Calgary on Friday, Sept. 4, 2015. FUNK is also charged with one count of fraud over $5,000, for the same offence committed in Edmonton. His next court appearance in Edmonton is Friday, Sept. 25, 2015.

His common-law wife, Stephanie DEGNER, 27, has been charged with one count of fraud over $5,000. She will next appear in court on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015.

Jonathan YARDLEY, 35, has been charged with two counts of fraud over $5,000. He will next appear in court on Friday, Sept. 4, 2015.

Ashley YARDLEY, 30, brother of Jonathan YARDLEY, was arrested on six outstanding warrants stemming from similar allegations in Edmonton. He is scheduled to appear in an Edmonton court on Friday, Sept. 25, 2015.

The investigation continues and further charges are expected to be laid.

Anyone who has information about this case is encouraged to contact police at 403-266-1234, or Crime Stoppers anonymously using any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

TEXT: tttTIPS to 274637

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