Fake CancerCare canvasser took money from 8 people, say Winnipeg police

A Winnipeg man faces fraud charges after some people in St. James and River Heights gave money to someone who claimedto be collecting donations on behalf ofCancerCare Manitoba.

Police say they received multiple complaints of a personcanvassing door-to-door in the two neighbourhoods between July 31 and Aug. 18.

Investigators determined that the person was canvassing fraudulently and managed to obtain money from at least eight unsuspectingresidents, police said.

"Everyone that did provide money to this individual did so in good faith and thinking that that money was going to a good cause," Const. Jason Michalyshen said Wednesday.

"As citizens we want to ensure that our charitable donations go where they're intended to go, and it's unfortunate that this individualtook advantage of a situation."

A 38-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday and charged with eight counts each of fraud under $5,000 andfailing to comply with a probation order. He has been taken into custody.

It's unclear how much money was collected in total, or whether any of the victims will get their donations back, Michalyshen said.

The CancerCare Manitoba Foundation's website states that it "does not solicit door-to-door." It accepts donations online.

Tips for residents

Michalyshen said anyone who believes they may have been defrauded by any kind of alleged fundraising campaign should call police. He also had tips for residents who see canvassers at their door.

"Ask as many questions as you can. If someone is representing an organization and receiving charitable donations on their behalf, I think they're going to be very well-versed in what they're doing, why they're doing it, where that money is going," he said.

"If someone becomes defensive or even angry or very pushy, I think that should be some red flags for anyone and everyone. So don't be afraid to ask questions."

Residents who don't feel comfortable with a door-to-doorcanvasser for whatever reason should not let the person in, close the door and document their experience, Michalyshenadded.

"What do they look like? What were they wearing? Were they in a car? Were they on a bike? Anything. Did they have any credentials? Was there a name on their jacket?" he said. "Document that information, call police and let us take it from there."