CARLETON PLACE – Playing to stereotype a Carleton Place used car salesman has been charged with fraud.

“Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have charged an individual following a lengthy investigation into allegations of fraud,” OPP Detective Const. John Armit released in a statement yesterday (July 28).

In July 2016, the Lanark County OPP Detachment began receiving a number of fraud complaints from consumers in relation to the purchase of used motor vehicles, automotive warranties and automobile financing from South Keys Auto Sales. This business was operated as The 4×4 Store, in Carleton Place. 

“Following an investigation by members of the Lanark County OPP Detachment – Crime Unit, the Anti-Rackets Branch – Ottawa Unit and with the assistance of the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC), the OPP has charged the former business manager/salesperson at The 4×4 Store,” Armit said.

David Lamothe, 53 of Drummond-North Elmsley Township, faces the following criminal charges:

Fraud over $5,000 contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada (31 counts);

Fraud under $5,000 contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada (three counts);

Knowing a document is forged, cause any person to use, deal with or act on it as if it were genuine contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada (23 counts).

The accused is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on Sept. 28.

“The OPP will not comment further in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and the court process,” Armit said.

Anyone with information should contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).