Key Takeaways
- Peel Police launched Project Circuit Breaker after receiving a complaint from the Electrical Safety Authority.
- Police identified 12 victims across Peel, Halton and York and allege customers were promised government rebates that did not exist.
- A 39-year-old Brampton man faces five charges and investigators believe additional victims may still come forward.
Project Circuit Breaker Investigation
Police said the investigation, known as Project Circuit Breaker, began in May after the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) submitted a complaint. Investigators from the Peel Regional Police Fraud Bureau examined the activities of two electrical contracting businesses operated by the accused, Strak Holdings Inc. and Raytar Holdings Inc.
According to police, investigators believe the businesses provided electrical services while allegedly failing to meet provincial licensing and safety requirements.
The investigation focused on work including electric vehicle charger installations, LED lighting installations and electrical panel replacements.
Alleged Misrepresentation and Fraudulent Rebates
Peel Police allege that the accused represented himself as a licensed electrical contractor and arranged for electrical work to be completed by people who were not properly certified.
Investigators also allege that homeowners were promised government rebates covering a significant portion, and in some cases the entire cost, of their electrical projects. Police said no such rebate program existed.
Some customers were also allegedly provided with fraudulent cheques that were later returned because of insufficient funds.
Police have identified 12 known victims across Peel, Halton and York. Investigators believe additional homeowners may have been affected and are asking anyone connected to the businesses or the accused to contact police.
Charges Against Brampton Man
Investigators arrested Rahyl Hassan, 39, of Brampton, on September 23. Police charged him with Defraud the Public, False Pretenses, Utter Forged Documents, Mischief Endangering Life and Possession of Counterfeit Currency.
Hassan was released from custody with conditions and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice.
The allegations have not been proven in court. The charges represent allegations against the accused, who is entitled to the legal presumption of innocence.
Electrical Safety Risks for Homeowners
Peel Police said electrical work performed by unlicensed or unqualified people can pose serious public-safety risks, including electrical fires, property damage, serious injury and death.
Police advised consumers to verify that electrical contractors are properly licensed and qualified before authorizing work. Information on hiring a licensed electrical contractor is available through the Electrical Safety Authority.
TwikUp's Perspective
This investigation shows why contractor verification is an important consumer-protection step, particularly when electrical upgrades involve large payments or government incentives. Homeowners can reduce uncertainty by independently checking licensing information rather than relying solely on advertisements, referrals or rebate claims.
The alleged use of non-existent rebates is also significant because incentive-based offers can make expensive home improvements appear more affordable. Consumers should verify any rebate directly through the relevant government or regulatory authority before making a payment.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who hired the businesses or the accused for electrical services, or has information about the investigation, is encouraged to contact the Fraud Bureau.