Antonio Whittier, 49, was granted $150,000 bail when he appeared before Justice of the Peace, Stephen Young last week charged with larceny by trick of $66,500.
According to police reports, Whittier of Market Street Extension, St. Joseph, allegedly encouraged and led a man to believe that he would procure gym equipment for him at a reduced cost, from his overseas employer, an international cruise line operator.
Using a series of manipulated photographs, WhatsApp messages and other documents, the accused convinced the victim to purchase the items, as the cruise ship was reducing operations as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and was selling off a large quantity of gym equipment at a reduced price.
The victim agreed to purchase the equipment, and made several payments totaling $65,500, with the expectation that the equipment would be delivered when the accused returned to the country in February 2021. On making his final payment, the victim subsequently lost contact with the accused, and was unable to locate him.
A report was made to the Fraud Squad in August 2021. Insp. Samuel and Sgt. Basarath, conducted investigations into the matter which revealed the accused was not employed on a cruise ship and he never left the country. The accused was arrested while conducting sales at a bakery in the St. Joseph area, on Thursday 13th January, 2022. Charges were laid by Cpl Liverpool of the Fraud Squad, on the same date.