Used car salesman charged with fraud, Richibucto, N.B

On June 14, 2011, the District 5 RCMP laid 35 fraud-related charges against 44-year-old Claude Thebeau, of Aldouane, N.B. They include 11 counts of obtaining money by false pretences; 13 counts of making a false statement in writing; and 11 counts of fraud.

Mr. Thebeau is the owner of Exotic Imports and Sales in Richibucto. The RCMP alleges that he has defrauded at least 17 individuals from across New Brunswick of more than $250,000.

An investigation was launched in June 2010, after the RCMP received a complaint from a customer. Several more complaints were received in the fall of 2010. The complaints involve individuals who were attempting to purchase vehicles from the business in question. In most cases, the victims were allegedly asked to pay for their vehicle in advance and then did not receive the vehicle.

The RCMP is asking anyone who may have done business with Claude Thebeau and who thinks they may also have been defrauded to contact the District 5 RCMP in Richibucto N.B.

Mr. Thebeau is scheduled to appear in Moncton Provincial Court on June 21, 2011.