News Release

Two Winnipeg men charged with immigration fraud

Winnipeg, Manitoba, June 19, 2012 – Following a four-month investigation, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) charged Bradley Jacobson with 23 counts and Kendall Schmidt with eight counts under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Criminal Code.

It is alleged that Mr. Jacobson, a former immigration representative with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council, and Mr. Schmidt developed false businesses and fraudulently submitted documents in order to lure foreign workers to Canada. As a result, the CBSA suspects more than 300 foreign nationals were victims of this crime.

The CBSA Criminal Investigations Division launched an official investigation in February 2012 after receiving a complaint that a person was a victim of immigration fraud. The CBSA executed a search warrant on June 14, 2012, at the residences of the accused, where further evidence was seized.

The next appearance in Winnipeg Provincial Court is scheduled for today June 19, 2012.
"Immigration fraud is a criminal offence and the CBSA takes this issue very seriously," says Lauren D. Delgaty, Regional Director General for the Prairie Region. "The CBSA will investigate and prosecute those engaging in immigration fraud to the full extent of the law."

To report immigration fraud in Canada, please call the Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1‑888-502-9060. All information is treated as confidential.

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For media information

Sean Best
CBSA Communications
204-983-4665