Anthony Renella Dugas, 29, was arrested on October 27 and faces multiple fraud charges. Police say Dugas is connected to 12 complaints. “The suspect is reported to send or show the seller a fake wire transfer, sometimes with more than the agreed sale price offered as a ‘tip.’ By the time the seller realizes the transfer is fake, the suspect is gone with the property,” the Edmonton Police Service said in an alert to the public Thursday. Investigators believe there are other victims and have “concerns about possible future scams.” Dugas also goes by the names Tony Schultz, Anthony Rendel, Tony EMW and Richard Carramusa. He is white, 6’3″ tall and weighs 290 pounds. Those who believe they are also a victim are asked to contact EPS at 780-423-4567. Police are advising online buyers and sellers to:
Confirm that electronic transfers have been deposited before releasing property. Meet during the day in a public space, ideally with video surveillance, like Edmonton’s exchange zones. Take another person with you to a meeting or share meeting details with friends and family. Be wary of prices that seem “too good to be true” and check serial numbers or VINs at the Canadian Police Information Center or Bicycle Directory. and Take screenshots of all ads, listing numbers, seller contact information and communications.
