Two brothers from Hamilton are facing charges for allegedly operating an online counterfeit licence plate business that is linked to numerous criminal investigations across Canada, according to Peel Regional Police.
Arrests and Charges
On April 7, 2026, officers from the Road Safety Services (RSS) unit executed search warrants at two Hamilton addresses, arresting Avery Macleod-Nolk, 28, and Tyler Matthew Macleod, 27, without incident. The siblings are charged with unlawfully making marks, selling or possessing counterfeit marks, affixing a mark, and possession of property obtained by crime. Both were released on an undertaking.
Investigation Details
Police allege that the suspects operated a registered online business that knowingly produced and sold counterfeit licence plates for use on vehicles. The investigation, led by RSS, identified the business as a source of plates used in over 30 offences in Ontario alone, as well as in other provinces. These offences include fraud, organized auto theft, violence, and firearms-related incidents.
During the search warrants, investigators seized cash, plate-pressing equipment, fraudulent blank plates from multiple jurisdictions, promotional materials, vehicles, and other items used in the production and distribution of counterfeit plates.
Public Safety Threat
Deputy Chief Marc Andrews emphasized the serious threat counterfeit licence plates pose to public safety. He stated, "This investigation underscores the strong collaboration between our specialized units and frontline officers, and our shared commitment to identifying those responsible and holding them fully accountable."
In one incident, police allege that a male driving a stolen vehicle equipped with counterfeit plates fled from police while impaired before crashing on Dixie Road on June 12, 2025. The suspect was arrested after attempting to take control of another vehicle.
Operation Overtness
Detective Constable Philip Menecola noted that the organization operated quite overtly, both through their online store and temporary sales booths. He explained that the fake plates are made from readily available materials and are "quite indistinguishable" from legitimate plates. He added that shutting down the organization also aimed to curb the crimes associated with these plates.
Menecola highlighted that only provincial government agencies can legally issue licence plates in Canada, including vanity plates. He noted that this is the first investigation of its kind in Peel Region.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Road Safety Services at 905-453-2121, ext. 3750, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
