A Calgary man is facing a slew of charges in relation to an identity theft investigation that started last September.
According to Calgary police, the Canadian Border Services Agency intercepted a shipment from China in September 2018, that contained 3,066 holographic stickers which investigators believe were intended for use on Canadian and American permanent residency cards.
The shipment was turned over to the Calgary Police Service’s fraud team which conducted a three-month investigation that led to the arrest of a man on Dec. 29, 2018.
Investigators initially suspected the man was making fraudulent identity documents using the holographic stickers and intended to make fake Canadian permanent residency cards.
During a search warrant at a storage locker in the 5000 block of 77 Avenue S.E., officers found evidence of the production of false identity documents. Officers also believe the man had created and had been living under false identities to avoid arrest warrants.
Garrit Glen English-Schleiermacher was charged with identity fraud, possession of forgery instruments, possession of a government stamp and fraud over $5,000 among other charges.
“Identity theft is a serious crime that can have lasting effects for victims,” CPS detective Matt Frederiksen said. “This is a great example of how law enforcement agencies work together for a common goal of seizing equipment intended for illegal purposes, and for holding individuals accountable for their offences. CPS would like to thank CBSA for its continued involvement in helping keep our city safe for all Calgarians.”
Police are hoping members of the public will come forward with information on any other identity theft or fraud offences English-Schleiermacher may have committed.
Residents are being reminded not to carry their birth certificates or social insurance numbers in their wallet or purse.
Anyone who is concerned about their identity or believes it may have been stolen, an inquiry can be made through a credit reporting agency like Equifax or TransUnion. If someone finds their identity has been stolen, they’re encouraged to notify their financial institution then report the incident to police.
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