Rental scams reported

2025-2147: On April 23, a realtor notified police that several of her property listings have been fraudulently posted on Facebook as rentals. While no money had been exchanged, she reported the scam listings to Facebook to have them removed. 

Rental scams often mimic legitimate ads but the seller has no actual control over the property. Typically, the fraudster will request a deposit, then cease contact once the money is received. 

To protect yourself from rental scams, always check the identity of the seller online. Watch for red flags, such as newly created accounts with few details, friends, or listings. If possible, visit the rental in person or request a live video tour before sending any payment.

For more information on scams and fraud prevention, contact the Nelson Police Department or visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Nelson resident victim of cryptocurrency fraud

2025-2166: A Nelson resident contacted the police this week after suspecting that he was being defrauded in a cryptocurrency scam. 

“These types of scams can be elaborate and very convincing,” said Special Constable Edwards, “Being educated on the techniques that scammers use is the best defense against fraud.”

The scam began several months ago when the victim clicked on a Facebook link to what appeared to be a legitimate investment website called WildBearUnion.net. Over time, he regularly spoke with company representatives who provided investment advice. Starting with smaller sums, he eventually invested nearly $30,000 in cryptocurrency over two months.

The situation escalated when the man was told that his investment had grown to be worth $150,000 but that the company would need a 10% commission fee to access the funds. Growing suspicious, the man contacted police. 

Investigators determined that WildBearUnion was no longer active online. None of the supposed company representatives could be located, and multiple review sites had flagged it as a scam. 

“Because it isn’t a regulated central authority, once funds are converted into cryptocurrency, they are untraceable and virtually impossible to recover.”  Edwards explained. 

Fraudsters can disguise websites and phone numbers to appear legitimate. Always conduct thorough research before making financial investments.

For more information on scams and fraud prevention, contact the Nelson Police Department or visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Website. 

Nelson Police rescue shopping cart

2025-2200: Police were called to a crime in progress Friday night when a group of teenagers attempted to submerge a shopping cart in the lake. 

Officers were already in the area when the call came in and arrived on the scene within moments. Initially, the three teenagers denied any involvement. However, when informed that a witness had seen them in the act, the guilty party admitted responsibility and agreed to retrieve the cart from the water.

Thanks to the timely and heroic rescue efforts, the cart was saved before sustaining damage.

The youth were given a warning for their behaviour and were then transported into the custody of their parents. 

CALLS FOR SERVICE

Members of the Nelson Police Department responded to 93 calls for service in the City of Nelson during this reporting period (April 20 at 12am to April 26 at 12pm).  

CONTACT:

Nelson Police Department

(250) 354-3919