The OPP has charged two individuals following a two-year fraud investigation related to pool installations across the County of Simcoe.
Between February 1, 2022, and November 27, 2023, the OPP received numerous reports of fraud in several detachment areas involving a pool and landscape company. Clients experienced numerous delays and misdirected communications. The clients’ backyards would either be left in disarray with improper installation or, in most cases, the work never started.
Investigations revealed that the accused used the company to defraud more than 16 different clients, amounting to over $489,000 in losses.
Matthew Tayler, 46-year-old from Barrie, has been arrested and charged with:
- Fraud over $5000 – 14 counts
- Obtaining by false pretences over $5000 – 14 counts
- Mischief over $5000 – 3 counts
Jaime Galipeau, 47-year-old from Barrie, has been arrested and charged with:
- Fraud over $5000 – 14 counts
- Obtaining by false pretences over $5000
Both the accused have been released on an Undertaking and will appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Midland on June 20, 2024.
The OPP Central Region Fraud Unit, Huronia West Crime Unit, and Southern Georgian Bay Crime Unit are continuing this investigation.
Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of any fraud is urged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can also report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
