Charges have been laid against a Lethbridge man in connection to alleged incidents of fraud, April 24, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge business owner charged in connection to alleged fraud

Apr 24, 2023 | 2:26 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) said one person faces charges following an investigation into allegedly fraudulent activities.

In February 2022, LPS launched an investigation into South City Service.

Police say the service received a complaint that a van and a motorcycle had been taken in for repairs in 2021, which was paid for up front, but the work was never completed and the vehicles had never been returned.

“The investigation determined both the motorcycle and van had been subsequently sold, but owner of the vehicles never signed a bill of sale or received any payment,” said LPS in a media release.

During the investigation, LPS said a second incident was brought to their attention. A truck was reportedly taken in for service and payment was provided, but after several months, the owner of the business refused to return the vehicle and had been using it as their personal vehicle.

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A third incident was reported in March 2023. According to LPS, a truck was taken into a mechanic in January 2023. Payment was provided for the repairs but the work was not completed and no refunds were provided.

David James Gould, 51, of Lethbridge, is charged with two counts each of false pretenses over $5,000 and two counts of fraud under $5,000; as well as one count each of theft over $5,000, trafficking possession of property obtained by crime, uttering a forged document, forgery, and take motor vehicle without owner consent.

Gould has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on June 1, 2023.

LPS said it believes that there may be additional victims. Anyone who believes they have been victimized is asked to call the Lethbridge Police Service at 403-328-4444 and reference file 22002856.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now