Toronto man charged after alleged vehicle-financing fraud at Oshawa dealership; police allege fentanyl found

Durham Regional Police say a 57-year-old Toronto man was arrested on Oct. 26, 2026, at Mills Motors in Oshawa after an alleged vehicle-financing fraud investigation. Police also allege officers found about 11 grams of fentanyl on him, leading to a charge of possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking.

The case involves allegations of identity fraud connected to the attempted purchase of a vehicle at an Oshawa dealership, with police saying staff confirmed the person whose identity was used was not involved.

Police allege the fraud took place between Oct. 22 and Oct. 26, 2026, and involved the attempted purchase of a 2027 GMC Acadia Denali from Mills Motors. According to police, the accused impersonated an Oshawa resident and used forged identification to arrange the purchase.

Police say dealership staff contacted the individual whose identity was used and confirmed he was not involved in the transaction.

On Oct. 26, police say the accused attended the dealership to complete the purchase and take possession of the vehicle, and the dealership notified police.

Durham police said members of the Central East Division arrested the man and found him with fraudulent identification bearing the victim’s name. Police also allege officers located approximately 11 grams of fentanyl on the accused.

Police say further investigation found the accused was bound by two release orders and was wanted on a warrant with another police service.

Police identified the accused as Ronald Whittaker, 57, of Toronto. He is charged with fraud over $5,000; personation to gain advantage; uttering a forged document; two counts of possession of an identity document; two counts of failing to comply with a release order; and possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking.

Police said Whittaker was held for a bail hearing. The allegations have not been proven in court.