An arrest warrant has been issued and remains outstanding for a 46-year-old Edmonton man in connection with multiple fraudulent online marketplace transactions. The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) charged Ryan Kenzie after an investigation into a scheme targeting sellers of valuable items such as phones, jewelry, and watches.
Fraud Scheme Details
According to police, Kenzie would contact individuals selling high-value items through online marketplaces. After arranging a meeting, he would convince the seller that he had sent payment via e-transfer, then leave with the merchandise. Investigators confirmed that the e-transfers were never actually sent.
Previous Convictions and New Charges
Kenzie was previously convicted of nine fraud-related offences that occurred in Edmonton and Sherwood Park between April and October 2025. After serving his sentence and being released on probation, he was subsequently charged in connection with a similar alleged fraud scheme. The repeated nature of these incidents suggests that Kenzie may have targeted many more individuals.
Const. Emily Kostuik stated, "By raising awareness, we hope to prevent others from falling victim to fraud and encourage anyone impacted to report it to police." Investigators continue to gather information and determine whether additional incidents may be linked to the suspect.
Police Urge Victims to Come Forward
Police are asking anyone who believes they were defrauded by Kenzie to contact investigators. They also encourage people to use the EPS Buy and Sell Exchange Zones, located at police station parking lots, for online transactions. These designated meeting areas are well-lit, monitored by video, and intended to help deter fraud and improve safety for buyers and sellers.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Edmonton Police Service or Crime Stoppers.
