Police seek Clarington man after senior loses more than $33,000
Durham Regional Police have issued an arrest warrant for a 40-year-old Clarington man after a 78-year-old resident allegedly lost more than $33,000 in a home repair and landscaping scheme. Investigators say the case began in May 2026 when the senior reported paying for work that was never completed.
According to police, the suspect allegedly befriended the victim over about a month, offering to perform landscaping and property repairs. Despite receiving payment, investigators allege no services were carried out. The accused, identified by police as Christopher Alexander Graham of Clarington, is now wanted on multiple charges linked to the reported fraud.
Charges and conditions
Police say the warrant seeks Graham on the following allegations: Fraud Over $5,000, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, Breach of Prohibition Order, two counts of Breach of Probation, and Fail to Comply with an Undertaking. Investigators also note that, at the time of the alleged conduct, the accused was under court-ordered conditions that barred him from seeking or accepting payment before completing work.
| Suspect | Age | Alleged Loss | Key Allegations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christopher Alexander Graham | 40 | Over $33,000 | Fraud over $5,000; property obtained by crime; breaches of court orders |
Durham Regional Police further allege the individual is wanted by five other police services across Ontario in connection with fraud-related matters. None of the allegations have been proven in court.
Potential for additional victims
Investigators are looking to determine whether the same tactics have been used to target others, particularly older residents. They are urging anyone who may have had similar interactions, or who has information on the suspect’s whereabouts, to contact the East Division Criminal Investigations Branch or Durham Regional Crime Stoppers.
"Investigators believe Graham may have targeted other vulnerable and elderly individuals through similar fraudulent schemes."
What residents should watch for
The case highlights typical warning signs police say are often present in property improvement scams involving vulnerable residents. While each situation differs, common risk indicators can include:
- Unsolicited offers to do work or repair damage, especially after a brief acquaintance.
- Pressure to pay in full or provide a large deposit before any work is started or completed.
- Vague or changing scope of work, lack of a written contract, or refusal to provide identification.
Police emphasize that homeowners should ask for written estimates, verify business details, and consider using established contractors. If a contractor is under any court order or prohibition, residents should not provide payment up front. Neighbours and family members are encouraged to check in with older adults when new service providers approach them.
Local context and next steps
For Clarington residents, the investigation serves as a reminder to verify trades and services before authorizing payment. Authorities continue to seek tips from the public and any records such as receipts, messages, or contracts that could assist the case. Investigators say they are reviewing whether similar approaches have been reported elsewhere in Durham Region.
Anyone with information about this investigation or potential additional victims is asked to contact the Durham Regional Police East Division Criminal Investigations Branch or reach out to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers. Police caution that active cases and court-ordered conditions are managed through the justice system, and all individuals have the right to a fair process.
