Jodi-Ann Bonnick, a Jamaican residing in Canada, is wanted by the Toronto Police Service in connection with a fraud-related offense, adding to her existing legal troubles after being accused of defrauding a local businesswoman of over $3 million in February.
On September 20, the Toronto Police issued a public advisory requesting assistance in locating Bonnick, who is being investigated for fraud exceeding CAD$5,000. Reports show that in September 2022, the victim discussed prospective business opportunities with Bonnick, resulting in nine orders for goods valued at more than $800,000. These goods were never delivered.
According to the police report, the 33-year-old Bonnick, hailing from King City, faces multiple charges, including ten counts of fraud exceeding CAD$5,000, eight counts of making false statements to procure money, and ten counts of possession of proceeds obtained through crime exceeding CAD$5,000.
Earlier, Bonnick operated a West Indian grocery store located on Weston Road near Jane Street in Canada. In February, she appeared before Senior Parish Judge Lori-Ann Cole-Montague at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court, where she was charged with obtaining goods by fraud totaling $3.2 million.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Bonnick, while masquerading as the proprietor of the Bonnick West Indian Grocery Store, accrued a debt of $3,267,941 from the complainant, who had extended credit with the expectation of repayment. But, no payments were made.
In response to these allegations, Bonnick’s defense attorney claimed that upon receiving knowledge of the accusations, she made a partial repayment of CAD$6,000 ($627,600) to the complainant.
When arrested at Norman Manley International Airport upon her arrival in Jamaica on February 5, Bonnick was reportedly pregnant and undergoing treatment for a medical condition in Canada, as per her defense counsel’s statements while requesting bail. The Crown objected to the bail application, citing her dual citizenship as a significant flight risk.
Additionally, the investigating officer disclosed that other individuals have made complaints against Bonnick, indicating the likelihood of further charges being filed. Despite the defense’s assertions, Judge Cole-Montague ordered Bonnick to be remanded in custody.
It remains uncertain whether Bonnick is now in Jamaica or Canada.