A 62-year-old Whitchurch-Stouffville man is facing theft and fraud charges after Durham Regional Police say he moved more than $900,000 out of a 95-year-old man's account while acting as his power of attorney.
According to Durham Regional Police, the force's Older Adult Support and Investigative Services (OASIS) Unit opened an investigation in April 2025 after receiving a report that funds were being fraudulently transferred from the victim's account. The accused was the victim's power of attorney at the time.
Investigators determined that more than $900,000 had been moved out of the victim's account without his knowledge or consent, police said.
On Monday, June 22, 2026, investigators concluded the case and arrested the man without incident. Police said the suspect and the victim are known to each other, and the accused's name is being withheld to protect the victim's identity.
The accused is charged with theft by person holding power of attorney, theft over $5,000, and possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
Police say the case is part of a troubling pattern. The OASIS Unit has received multiple reports of thefts committed by people holding power of attorney, and according to the police service, some of those reports suggest older adults are being taken advantage of by family members entrusted with decisions about their property and personal care.
Police issue guidance for families
In releasing details of the charges, Durham Regional Police issued a series of reminders to older adults and their families about powers of attorney.
The service emphasized that having powers of attorney in place for both property and personal care allows a trusted person to make financial and health decisions on someone's behalf if they become unable to do so. Without those documents, families can face delays, added stress and legal barriers when trying to help, police said.
Police also stressed that anyone acting under a power of attorney has a legal and fiduciary duty to act honestly and solely in the best interests of the person they represent. They recommend speaking with a qualified lawyer to ensure wishes are clearly documented, choosing a person who will carry out the older adult's decisions rather than their own, and having open conversations about expectations.
Among the tips offered: keep original documents secure and never hand them over, plan ahead with both a power of attorney and a will, and don't let anyone pressure you into appointing a power of attorney or changing an existing will.
Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Carquez of the OASIS Unit at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5618. Residents who suspect a power of attorney is misusing their authority, or who know an older adult who may be a victim of any crime, can call Durham Regional Police at 905-579-1520.
Anonymous tips can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
