A Brampton man has been charged for allegedly operating two electrical contracting businesses without proper provincial licensing and safety requirements.
Peel police said their investigation dubbed “Project Circuit Breaker” began in May following a complaint from the Electrical Safety Authority, a not-for-profit corporation responsible for enforcing part of the Electricity Act on behalf of the province.
The man, who operated Strak Holdings Inc. and Raytar Holdings Inc. allegedly misrepresented himself as a licensed electrical contractor and employed people to do work even though they were not properly certified.
Police said the work included installations for electric vehicle chargers and LED lighting and electrical panel replacements.
Customers were promised that the electrical work would be covered by government rebates, which police said don’t exist. They were also provided fraudulent cheques that were returned due to insufficient funds.
Police said they have identified 12 victims from Peel, Halton, and York regions so far.
The operator, 39-year-old Rahyl Hassan, was arrested last month, police announced in a news release on Friday.
He has been charged with defrauding the public, false pretenses, uttering forged documents, mischief endangering life, and possession of counterfeit currency.
“Homeowners have a right to expect honesty and professionalism from the contractors they hire. This investigation highlights the serious consequences that can arise when individuals allegedly misrepresent their qualifications and services,” Peel police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said in a statement.
Emily Larose with the ESA said unlicensed electrical work can put people and property at serious risk.
“Ontario’s electrical safety system is designed to help protect homeowners from that risk. Hiring a licensed electrical contractor and ensuring required electrical work is filed with ESA are important steps homeowners can take to help keep their families and properties safe,” she said in a statement.
Police believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone who hired the accused or his two businesses to contact them at 905-453-2121 ext. 3335.
