Ottawa Police have charged a man accused of stealing $1.5 million worth of computer equipment from his former employer and then selling the stolen goods online.
Police said that from 2006 to 2009 a 43-year-old Ottawa man ordered 400 computer monitors, 600 laptops, and a number of printers from his engineering firm's suppliers.
He had the equipment shipped to himself, and then sold the goods online, police said.
Detective Chris Rhone with the Organized Fraud Unit said the accused was detected by chance.
"There was a conversation between a supplier and this company and the supplier mentioned that they were going to be sending additional equipment to them and it was not equipment that they used, so that kind of set off some alarm bells," said Rhone.
"That basically started an internal investigation which ultimately resulted in these charges," he said.
Police are not naming the employer.
Rhone said police recommend companies implement, renew and monitor strict financial controls over their procurement systems.
The accused is charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of proceeds and property obtained by crime over $5,000 and money laundering.
He is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday.


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