The North Bay Police Service is investigating the exploitation of illegal immigrants to conduct driveway paving work in the City of North Bay.
On July 21, 2023, members of the North Bay Police Service responded to a report of suspected illegal immigrants being exploited as part of a driveway paving scam. A suspect claiming to represent a company called “Emerald Paving,” went door-to-door in the area of Tower Drive and Little Down Lane, North Bay, offering to repave residential driveways for a cost between $4,000 and $12,000 to be paid in cash. In several instances, residents paid that amount for the work.
Police attended the area at which point the suspect who had been selling the service door-to-door fled. Police arrested three workers who were later identified as Mexican nationals who were illegally residing and working in Canada. The individuals were later transferred to the custody of the Canada Border Services Agency.
At this time the North Bay Police Service has not located the suspect who fled the area of July 21. The investigation is ongoing. Police will not be releasing a description of the suspect to the public at this time.
The North Bay Police Service reminds the public that repaving a residential driveway requires proper permits from the City of North Bay. Businesses are required to be properly licensed in order to operate and must employ individuals who are legally allowed to work in Canada. Hiring an illegal, unlicensed business to complete work could leave you at risk for shoddy work with limited recourse to recover funds paid.
If you have recently hired this company or one matching its description or have additional information that could aid in the investigation, please contact the North Bay Police Service at 705-497-5555 and press 9 to speak with an officer. If you would like to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.nearnorthcrimestoppers.com
The North Bay Police Service would like to recognize the Canada Border Services Agency for their assistance in this incident.
