An Oshawa man has been charged for allegedly defrauding a North Durham charity of more than $55,000.

According to police, the investigation began in June of 2017 when North House reported that its executive director was stealing from the company.

“They indicated cash and credit card accounts were used for unauthorized personal purchases including sporting event tickets and restaurants over a five-month period. Several unauthorized cheques were also written in the name of the accused and cashed,” reads a press release from police.

After working with the board of directors and local banks for several months, officers arrested a male in Oshawa.

Ian Faulkner, 42, has been charged with fraud over $5,000 and fail to comply with probation order.

North House provides innovative approaches to safe and affordable housing, meeting the needs of low income residents in Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge.

Police are asking anyone who may have been victimized by this individual to come forward.

Anyone with new information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Finley of the North Division Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2017.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).