Inspector Heather Nichols and Detective Dan Kraehling from 53 Division announced the results of Project Warden, an ongoing auto theft investigation that began in August 2024.
The media conference can be viewed on YouTube.
Led by 53 Division, this investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of two people, the laying of 176 charges, and the uncovering of a scheme resulting in fraudulent and criminal activities worth approximately $2,188,000.00.
“This project builds upon the successful efforts of Detective Kraehling and the 53 Division team, who previously led Projects Safari and Poacher,” said Inspector Nichols. “These initiatives have resulted in more than a dozen arrests, over 100 charges laid, and the recovery of more than 100 stolen vehicles, marking significant strides in our fight against auto theft.”
At the start of the project, investigators learned that two suspects, who were employed at a Toronto car dealership, allegedly used their positions to acquire and sell stolen vehicles to unsuspecting customers under the guise of legitimate used car sales.
The vehicles would be purchased from numbered companies, some of which were owned by the accused themselves, using funds from the dealership. The accused would then create fictitious sales agreements using “clean” Vehicle Identification Numbers, or VINs, and would alter Carfax reports to match the fraudulent vehicle information, giving buyers the appearance of a legitimate purchase.
A stolen vehicle would then be delivered to the buyer in what appeared to be a legitimate vehicle purchase. Unbeknownst to the buyer, the vehicle VIN they received did not match the vehicle that they had purchased from the accused. Some of the sold vehicles were falsely registered to individuals who were not listed on the sales documents.
During the week of October 21, 2024, investigators executed eight Criminal Code search warrants on residences, commercial garages, and vehicles. Investigators located and recovered two suspected “re-vinned” vehicles, in addition to numerous amounts of documents and other electronics used to facilitate the fraudulent activities and the sale of stolen motor vehicles.
Investigators have currently linked the accused to 22 fraudulent auto sales that were conducted while the accused were acting in their capacity as legitimate car salespeople.
Harris Bocknek, 35, of Barrie, was arrested and charged with:
- two counts of Trafficking in Property Obtained by Crime over $5000
- two counts of Alter/Remove Vehicle Identification Number
- 22 counts of Forgery
- 22 counts of Utter Forged Document
- 22 counts of Alter Document with Intent to Defraud
- 22 counts of Fraud over $5000
Harris Bocknek social media bio: A lifelong fan, always learning & grateful to be part of automotive retail. Time flies while having fun, over 10 yrs with OEM’s such as Jeep/RAM, VW/Audi, Mitsubishi & more! Certain brands hold greater prestige or pack added horsepower, yet they were all designed for a similar function… It’s the professional behind the brand providing the best experience who ultimately makes the difference. Firmly believe people hate to be ”sold” but LOVE to buy! Develop a process to be both fun and engaging for clients and staff alike. Our industry craves technology- isn’t it ironic STILL no shortcut or ”app” that can successfully replace what hard work achieves?? Perseverance with the right attitude are still the foundation to success! Next to ”desking” a great deal or landing that perfect trade, enjoy spending Sundays in cottage country or on Kempenfelt Bay with my gorgeous little girl.
He is scheduled to appear in court at the Ontario Court of Justice, 10 Armoury Street, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 2 p.m., in room 202.
Fadi Zeto, 32, of Mississauga, has been arrested and charged with:
- two counts of Trafficking in Property Obtained by Crime over $5000
- two counts of Alter/Remove Vehicle Identification Number
- 20 counts of Forgery
- 20 counts of Utter Forged Document
- 20 counts of Alter Document with Intent to Defraud
- 20 counts of Fraud over $5000
He was scheduled to appear in court at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 10 a.m., in room 106.
An image of Zeto is attached.
“The goal of Project Warden was to locate and arrest individuals responsible for trafficking stolen vehicles within the City of Toronto,” said Detective Kraehling. “We do believe there are more victims. If you recognize Mr. Zeto, and he sold you a vehicle, please contact 53 Division at 416-808-5306.”
When purchasing a used vehicle, be sure to perform proper due diligence by independently obtaining vehicle history reports. Re-vinned/stolen vehicles will often have discrepancies in their vehicle histories such as being the wrong colour or having inconsistent odometer readings.
Anyone with information can also contact police at 416-808-5306, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.
