(COCHRANE, ON) – The James Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), with assistance from the OPP North East Region Crime Unit, has arrested and charged one individual in connection with a significant fraud and theft investigation involving a large industrial operation located northeast of Cochrane.
On January 30, 2025, police received a report from the organization regarding irregular purchasing activity involving a former employee. An internal audit revealed that, over a period of approximately 2.5 to 3 years, large quantities of building materials, tools, and electrical and plumbing equipment were fraudulently obtained through company purchasing channels and shipped offsite to North Bay for personal use.
A review of purchase orders and shipping documentation identified an estimated $500,000 in materials that were not used for legitimate operations.
As a result of the investigation, on February 17, 2026, police arrested Corey MACDONALD, 38 years of age, of North Bay.
The accused has been charged with:
- Fraud over $5000 – four counts
- Theft over $5000 – four counts
The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cochrane on March 24, 2026.