HRP release:

Police have charged a Montreal man following an investigation into a fraud that targeted seniors in Halifax Regional Municipality.

In November 2024, police received several reports of victims receiving a call from someone pretending to be a family member, indicating they had been arrested and are in jail. The victim would then receive a second call from someone representing themselves to be from the legal system. The caller would request money to have the victim’s loved one released from custody.

Police received similar reports again in January 2025, and investigators determined the suspect was the same person involved in the November incidents.

The suspect has now been identified as Amcet Ricaldy-Solorzano, 53, from Montreal. He will appear in Halifax provincial court at a later date to face charges of:

• Fraud over $5000.00 (x7)
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.00 (x7)
• Fraud under $5000.00
• Possession of property obtained by under $5000.00
• Participate in criminal organization

Ricaldy-Solorzano is currently serving a sentence in Ontario for similar crimes.

The investigation remains ongoing and police believe there may be other victims. Anyone who believes they have been a victim of a fraud is encouraged to call police at 902-490-5020.

Tips for identifying fraud:

• Be suspicious of any calls or emails asking for money.
• Do not provide or confirm any personal or financial information to anyone unless you are certain of the identity of the individual and/or the legitimacy of the organization they claim to represent.
• In Canada, law enforcement and court officials will not attend a residence to collect money for bail.
• Scammers can spoof phone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a trusted source.
• Scammers don’t want you to take time to think the situation through or consult someone else. They try to create a sense of urgency so you will take immediate action.