UPDATE #1: Additional Charges Laid in Romance Fraud Investigation

A male previously charged in a romance fraud investigation is facing additional charges after further victims came forward following a police press conference.

On Monday, August 31, 2026, investigators with the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit arrested Salvatore MALANDRINO, age 41 of Marmora, following an investigation into allegations that multiple women had been financially exploited while engaged in romantic relationships with him.

Following a press conference held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, regarding the investigation, additional victims came forward and provided information to police. 

MALANDRINO has been charged with three additional offences: Fraud Over $5,000 x1 and Make False Statement to Procure a Loan x2.

He remains in custody. 

Investigators continue to have concerns that there may be additional victims and encourage anyone who believes they may have been defrauded or financially deceived by the accused to contact police.

Many victims of romance fraud are reluctant to report what has happened to them. Feelings of embarrassment, shame, self-blame, and betrayal are common. Victims of fraud are not responsible for the actions of those who deceive them. The responsibility lies solely with the person who chose to exploit trust for personal gain.

If you believe that you have been defrauded or financially deceived while in a romantic relationship, we encourage you to contact police.

For more information on Romance Scams and how you can better protect yourself, please visit: https://www.drps.ca/community-safety-and-support/crime-prevention/fraud-and-financial-crimes/

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Miglia of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2950.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

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ORIGINAL RELEASE SENT MONDAY AUGUST 31, 2026

Male Arrested After Romance Fraud Investigation

A male is facing several charges after entering into multiple romantic relationships and defrauding five victims out of more than $1 million.

In November 2025, investigators with the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit began an investigation into a male reported to have financially exploited multiple women while engaged in romantic relationships with them.

The investigation revealed that between 2020 and 2025, the accused targeted women seeking companionship and meaningful relationships. Victims first met the accused in both social and professional settings, including through the accused’s dog training business Friendly K9 and at local fitness facilities.