Toronto police have arrested a Brampton man in connection with an alleged fraud scheme in which elderly homeowners were persuaded to pay for repair work that investigators say was either unnecessary or never completed.
The Toronto Police Service said the case dates back to July 2024, when two elderly victims were approached at their home by multiple men who allegedly posed as legitimate contractors and City of Toronto workers. Police allege the victims were told they needed roof repairs, mandatory backyard clean-ups and emergency home repairs.
Investigators say the victims paid for the work, but the repairs were never required or were not carried out.
Police identified the accused as 23-year-old Arashdeep Singh of Brampton. He was arrested on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
Singh faces three counts of fraud over $5,000, three counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, one count of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, two counts of laundering the proceeds of Canadian crime, and one count of possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000.
According to police, the alleged fraud involved the use of three business names: Xcellent Custom Homes Ltd., Friendly Masonry Ltd., and 17051450 Canada Inc.
Toronto police said investigators believe there could be additional victims and have released an image of the accused as part of the ongoing investigation.
Singh was scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, located at 2201 Finch Ave. W., on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 301.
Police are urging residents, especially seniors and their families, to be cautious when dealing with unsolicited contractors who show up at the door claiming urgent repairs are needed.
They advise homeowners to seek multiple independent quotes before agreeing to any work, verify contractor credentials through independent sources, and avoid making rushed decisions under pressure. Police also warn against paying large upfront amounts or using cash or bank drafts when approached by door-to-door contractors.
The service said residents are under no obligation to engage with anyone soliciting work at their home and should research businesses through online reviews, references and word of mouth before signing a contract.
Anyone who believes they may have been defrauded is encouraged to report the incident to local police. In Toronto, reports can be filed through the Toronto Police Service. Victims are also asked to contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre through its online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
