WELLINGTON NORTH – Police are still looking for a Florida man who went missing in May.
Wellington County OPP officials say they are still trying to locate “Guillermo,” a 30-year-old man from Pembrooke Pine, Florida.
“Police are concerned for his safety and are asking anyone who can help locate him to contact the OPP,” police stated in a Sept. 17 press release.
Guillermo is described as a 5’9” white male, with an average build, short dark hair and a prominent scar on his scalp.
Police originally issued a missing person press release about Guillermo in June.
“He was reported to have flown from Florida to Toronto after April 24, 2024, and spotted at Louise Marshall Hospital (in) Mount Forest on May 23, 2024,” police stated.
“He was possibly in Montreal on June 26, 2024.”
Anyone with information can contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at csgw.tips.
Dirt bike driver charged
WELLINGTON NORTH – On Sept. 21 at about 8am, Wellington County OPP officers were monitoring traffic when the driver of a dirt bike failed to stop for police and fled the area.
“Shortly thereafter, officers patrolling the area located the operator and conducted an investigation,” police stated in a press release.
A 51-year-old Kitchener resident was charged with failing to stop for police, driving without plates, driving without insurance and driving without a licence.
The accused is to appear in Guelph court at a later date.
Motorcyclist tries to flee police
GUELPH – An Erin man faces several charges after he attempted to flee police on a motorcycle last Saturday.
Just before 2am on Sept. 21, police observed a Ducati motorcycle driving around a “road closed” sign near Macdonell Street and Wyndham Street North.
The roads were closed for pedestrian safety as part of the city’s “safe semester” initiative.
“As officers approached the male he smiled, started the motorcycle and attempted to flee but officers on foot were able to catch and detain him,” police stated in a press release.
A 22-year-old Erin man is charged with flight from police, disobeying a sign, driving without insurance and using an unauthorized licence plate. He is to appear in Guelph court on Nov. 5.
Facebook ‘friends’ fraud
ORILLIA – The OPP is warning the public about the risks of purchasing concert tickets and other items on Facebook.
“There has been an increase in fraud reports on Facebook, particularly through Facebook Marketplace and Messenger,” police stated in a Sept. 17 press release.
“A common trend involves hacked Facebook accounts, making it seem like friends are selling concert tickets or other items.
“However, their profiles have been hacked by scammers exploiting the trust between you and your friends.
“The OPP advises the public to verify these transactions by contacting the person directly outside of Facebook or arranging to meet them in person.”
Police offered the following fraud warning signs:
– the price is suspiciously low compared to typical prices, seeming too good to be true;
– messages consistently contain grammatical errors;
– seller requests payment via e-transfer; and
– listings are being posted for sale in Facebook groups.
“To avoid becoming a victim, check with another family member or trusted friend to verify the information before sending money,” police stated.
Suspected fraud should be reported to local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
For more information, visit antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
OPP safety campaign
LONDON – West Region OPP officers are conducting a “Drive Smart: Keep It Safe” campaign this week.
Aimed at tackling stunt driving and illegally modified vehicles, the campaign began on Sept. 22 and will wrap up on Sept. 29.
“Stunt driving, including speeding and aggressive manoeuvres, poses a significant threat to everyone on the road: drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike,” police stated in a Sept. 24 press release.
“Every time someone engages in dangerous driving, they risk not only their own life but the lives of countless others.
“Illegally modified vehicles can compromise safety through impaired visibility and handling issues. These modifications can make a vehicle unpredictable and difficult to control, leading to collisions.”
Police say that during this week’s campaign, the OPP will be increasing patrols and conducting modified vehicle inspections focused on identifying and addressing dangerous behaviors.
“The goal is not just to enforce the law but to educate drivers about the serious consequences of their actions,” police stated.
Drivers caught engaging in stunt driving or operating illegally modified vehicles can face substantial fines, points on their license, and even vehicle impoundment.
“As community members, we must encourage one another to drive responsibly and follow the law,” stated Inspector Mike McConnell, Traffic and Marine Program manager with West Region OPP.
“If you see dangerous driving or suspect illegal vehicle modifications, report it.
“Your vigilance can save lives. Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone. Drive smart, keep it safe!”
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Anyone with information about any of the above incidents can contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at csgw.tips. Tip providers may be eligible for a cash reward.
