The 28-year-old woman is now facing charges filed by the Durham Police Officers after allegedly defrauding the local Filipino community of more than $200,000. It was said that she convinced Filipinos that she could help their family members to emigrate to Canada. Police said targeted individuals received text messages or emails telling them to periodically drop off money at a specific address.

Durham Radio News published last October 19, 2018, that the woman named Maria Elaine Doble was charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and possession of a counterfeit mark. Police said there may be other victims that have not come forward and they are calling anyone with any information to get in touch with them.

The JCA Law Office cautions fellow Filipino citizens to be wary of unscrupulous recruiters who prey on people who are very eager to try their luck here in Canada. Please verify the qualifications and backgrounds of persons and entities who purportedly represent the Canadian government and/or its programs.

The victims should come forward and immediately proceed to the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto (PCG Toronto) to inform them of their situation and avail help from the Philippine government.

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REFERENCE: (1) CBC.CA (2) DURHAM RADIO NEWS NETWORK