Homeowners who hired two electrical contracting businesses operated by a Brampton man are being asked to contact investigators after Peel Regional Police said an alleged fraud involving electrical work and rebate promises affected 12 known victims across Peel, Halton and York.
Rahyl Hassan, 39, of Brampton, was arrested and charged on Sept. 23 following a four-month Fraud Bureau investigation. Police said he was released with conditions and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice.
The police release did not list the specific offences or provide a court appearance date.
Police launched Project Circuit Breaker in May after receiving a complaint from the Electrical Safety Authority, known as the ESA. The investigation focused on Strak Holdings Inc. and Raytar Holdings Inc., two businesses police identified as being operated by Hassan.
According to police, the businesses provided electrical services while allegedly failing to meet provincial licensing and safety requirements. The investigation concerned services provided to homeowners across Ontario.
Investigators working with the ESA allege Hassan presented himself as a licensed electrical contractor and arranged for people without the proper certification to perform electrical work.
That work included installing electric vehicle chargers and LED lighting, as well as replacing electrical panels, police said.
Alleged rebate promises
Police allege customers were told government rebates would pay for a substantial share of the work, and in some cases cover the entire cost. Investigators said the promised rebate program did not exist.
Many victims also received cheques that police described as fraudulent. Those cheques were subsequently returned because there were insufficient funds, according to investigators.
Police believe there may be more victims beyond the 12 already identified. Anyone who hired either business or Hassan for electrical services, or has information about the investigation, is asked to contact the Fraud Bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 3335.
Check qualifications before work begins
Police are reminding residents to verify that electrical contractors and other trades professionals have the required licences and qualifications before approving work.
Unlicensed or unqualified electrical work can create risks including fires, property damage, serious injury and death, police warned.
The ESA advises homeowners to hire a licensed electrical contractor and ensure required electrical work is filed with the authority. Information about hiring a licensed contractor is available through the ESA.
