Surrey Municipal Employee Faces Charges in Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Case
A City of Surrey employee is confronting serious fraud allegations following an extensive investigation by the Surrey RCMP's economic crimes unit. The probe, which spanned nearly two years, centers on accusations that the employee orchestrated a sophisticated scheme that allegedly defrauded the municipality of approximately $2.5 million.
The Investigation and Allegations
In early 2024, authorities launched an investigation into what police describe as a significant fraud reported by the City of Surrey. Investigators examined claims of substantial financial irregularities, alleging that Sunny Catlin, 40, exploited her position to manipulate the city's financial systems.
According to investigators, Catlin is accused of creating a series of fraudulent files connected to her official duties over an extended period. The specific allegations claim she issued and deposited City of Surrey cheques without proper authorization for her personal benefit.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Prosecutors have approved multiple serious charges against Catlin, including:
- Fraud or breach of trust in connection with her office duties
- Defrauding the city of money exceeding $5,000 by deceitful means
- Theft of city property valued over $5,000
- Forgery by creating false City of Surrey deposit release authorization packages
The accused's first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025. While the investigation has concluded, police continue working with prosecutors on the disclosure process.
Official Responses and Commitment to Integrity
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke issued a statement acknowledging the case, though she declined to comment specifically on the investigation. She expressed gratitude toward the economic crimes unit and all investigators involved in uncovering the alleged scheme.
"The City of Surrey remains committed to transparency and integrity in all its operations," Locke stated, emphasizing the municipality's dedication to proper financial governance despite the serious allegations.
Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton, Surrey's police spokesman, confirmed that investigators have wrapped up their work on the case and are now assisting with the prosecution's disclosure requirements as the legal process moves forward.
