Man suspected in 60 more snow clearing schemes

Dozens of new charges could be brought against a suspect accused of defrauding people in an alleged snow clearing scheme.

Toronto police say they have received a crush of complaints since announcing eight charges against a 30-year-old Toronto man last week.

Det. Const. Chris Deveraux said as many as 60 new cases have come forward from Toronto and the Mississauga, Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Thornhill areas.

Police believe the same suspect was involved in each of the cases.

Investigators allege the man offered to clear snow at homes for the rest of the winter. Investigators say payments of $60 to $180 were requested in advance, but the work was never done.

Police say the man targeted seniors and people suffering from medical conditions as well as others who were not as vulnerable.

Devereaux said the suspect may have collected as much as $8,000.

Elman Iakhiiaev, 30, is charged with eight counts of fraud under $5,000.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Devereaux at [e-mail] or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).

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