Ontario Provincial Police briefs

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Oxford resident loses thousands to scam

An individual is out $5000 after falling victim to a romance scam.

On July 14, members of the Oxford OPP were notified of a fraud that occurred in the Town of Tillsonburg.

The suspect commenced an online relationship with the victim, then claimed they needed money for a flight home. The victim sent the money.

When the suspect started asking for more money, a relative of the victim encouraged them to call police.

“Be vigilant when meeting people online. There are legitimate people online who are sincere about creating friendships; however, if a person starts asking for money, that should be a red flag, and you should consider talking to a trusted friend or family member prior to continuing the relationship,” explained media relations Constable Randi Crawford.

If you think you have become a victim of fraud, don't be embarrassed. Contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

Driver faces charges after losing a tire

Police are reminding every driver to check their vehicle for safety.

Three out of five wheel studs on a vehicle broke off recently on the 401 in Oxford County, causing the wheel to fall off, jump the median and hit a car traveling in the opposite direction. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The driver was charged with improperly installed tires.

Dangerous dirt bike leads to charges in Ingersoll

An Ingersoll man faces a long list of charges after allegedly going on a dangerous dirt bike ride in the town.

Police arrested and charged an individual with ten charges on the evening of July 6. As a result of the investigation, a 29-year-old has been charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with operation while impaired, two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, three counts of failing to comply with a release order, failing to comply with an Undertaking, two counts of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 and possession of a dangerous weapon.

The accused was remanded into custody awaiting a bail hearing.