Potential scam involves person claiming to be city by-law officer, snatching residents' money
The city was recently notified about a concerning incident where a resident was approached at their home by someone posing as a by-law officer. The resident said they were asked to provide payment on the spot for a violation related to tall grass and weeds.
The city wants to remind you that Orillia by-law officers never collect fine or penalty payments at your door. Any legitimate fines or penalties issued through the city must be paid through official channels like the Orillia City Centre, online or by mail.
All legitimate officers wear distinctive blue uniforms bearing the official logo and carrying city-issued identification badges. Officers will never request payment in cash or on-site at a home.
If a resident is approached by someone claiming to be a by-law officer, they should report the incident to police.
'Public safety is our top priority, and we want residents to be cautious and informed,' said Shawn Crawford, Director of Legislative, Building, Parking, and Transit Services. 'City by-law officers are always identifiable and follow proper protocols. If something feels off, trust your instincts and report it.'
For more information on this scam, residents can call 705-325-2313.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CTV News
8 minutes ago
- CTV News
Sudbury police charge 2 novice drivers in high-speed stops
A Greater Sudbury police officer clocked two novice drivers travelling more than 55 km/h then the speed limit on Maley Drive on August 2, 2025. (Greater Sudbury Police Service/Facebook) Two novice drivers were charged with stunt driving after being caught speeding excessively on Maley Drive over the long weekend, prompting a renewed warning from police about road safety. A Greater Sudbury officer conducting speed enforcement stopped one driver going 144 km/h and another travelling 135 km/h in an 80 km/h zone – just minutes apart on Aug. 2. Both drivers, whose licences were still in the novice stage, received 30-day licence suspensions, 14-day vehicle impoundments and future court dates for stunt driving and speeding offences. Police stress dangers of speeding In a social media post Tuesday, the Greater Sudbury Police Service emphasized that 'speeding isn't a game – it's a risk,' and reiterated their commitment to enforcement in high-complaint areas. 'GSPS continues to focus enforcement in high-complaint areas to help keep our roads safe for everyone,' the post read. 'Speed limits exist for a reason – let's all do our part to drive responsibly.' The post ended with a direct plea to the community: 'Slow down, Sudbury.'
CTV News
8 minutes ago
- CTV News
Shooting in Scarborough leaves one person injured
Police are on the scene of a shooting near Warden and Lawrence on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. (CP24) One person has been seriously injured in a shooting in Scarborough. They got a call for a shooting in the area of Lawrence Avenue East and Warden Avenue at 3:50 p.m. When officers arrived, they located a male victim. Paramedics told CTV News Toronto that the victim was taken to a local hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Toronto shooting Police tape surrounds the intersection of Lawrence and Warden following a shooting on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. (CP24) Police say three suspects fled and were last seen northbound on Warden Avenue. No suspect descriptions have been released.
CTV News
8 minutes ago
- CTV News
One person seriously injured in stabbing near Dufferin and Bloor
Toronto police cruisers are seen in this file photo. (Simon Sheehan/CP24) One person has been rushed to the hospital following a stabbing in Toronto's west end Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services were called to a residential neighbourhood near Bloor Street West and Russett Avenue, west of Dufferin Street, around 4 p.m. Toronto paramedics say the victim sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Police are searching for a suspect described as a Black male, six-feet tall, between 40 and 50 years old and was wearing black jacket, pants, a black baseball hat and glasses. He was last seen northbound on Dufferin Street. The circumstances that led to the stabbing are not immediately known.
