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Boyle RCMP make arrest in widespread credit card scam

A credit card scam that targets tire shops has made its way to Boyle using cards stolen from as far away as Ontario according to the Boyle RCMP.

Mounties have arrested  28-year-old Daniel Thompson of Tofield in relation to the alleged scamming of a Boyle area business out of approximately $141,000.

Police allege that Thompson placed or took part in making thirteen total orders for tires using either stolen or fake credit cards.

“Somebody pretending to be a business owner, will present a business name to the tire retailer and order a large amount of tires,” said Sgt. John Spaans, Boyle RCMP. That large amount averaged to be 32 according to the Mountie.

Thompson has been charged with property obtained by crime, possession of stolen property and possession of a controlled substance and is set to appear in Boyle Provincial Court on Apr. 12.

Thompson was also laid with two similar charges on Mar. 31 in relation to the same kind of scam in Tofield.

Police believe the scam is widespread throughout the region and that other businesses in the Edmonton area have also been hit.

“To avoid being victimized by this scam, it is imperative that businesses exercise due diligence when taking credit card information and to verify the validity of all credit card orders prior to turning over the property,” noted Spaans. “If your business has been affected, please contact your local RCMP detachment or policing service.”

He believes the tires are making their way to Edmonton and Central Alberta before possibly being sold on Kijiji or Facebook.