At least a dozen people fell victim to a Brampton contractor who did unlicensed electrical work and offered fake rebates to clients, police say. (Photo: Peel Regional Police)

At least a dozen people fell victim to a Brampton contractor who did unlicensed electrical work and offered fake rebates to clients, police say.

Peel Regional Police say the investigation dubbed Project Circuit Breaker was launched in May after receiving a complaint from the Electrical Safety Authority about two electrical contracting businesses.

Investigators say Strak Holdings Inc. and Raytar Holdings Inc. both provided clients with electrical services, including installations for electric vehicle chargers and LED lighting, and electrical panel replacements.

But the police say that the owner of the companies “misrepresented himself as a licensed electrical contractor” and arranged for work to be done “by individuals who were not properly certified.”

Investigators also say that customers were promised government rebates to cover the costs of the electrical work. In some cases, customers were offered rebates that would cover the full cost of the electrical work.

Police say no such rebate program existed, and that many victims were also provided with fraudulent cheques that were later returned due to insufficient funds.

Peel police say Rahyl Hassan, 39, of Brampton, was arrested on Sept. 23 and charged with defraud the public, false pretenses, utter forged documents, mischief endangering life and possession of counterfeit currency.

The accused was released from custody with conditions and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

Last 30 Days: 54,653 Votes

All Time: 1,554,310 Votes

452 VOTES
Do election debates change who you vote for?

Investigators say there are 12 known victims in across Peel, Halton, and York, and say anyone who hired these businesses or the accused for electrical services,  is encouraged to contact the Fraud Bureau by calling 905-453-2121 ext. 3335.

Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca. When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.


INsauga’s Editorial Standards and Policies

Stay in the know.

Subscribe now to receive our daily email of today’s top stories in your city!