Toronto man arrested after extortion attempt of Bradford couple

A Toronto resident faces charges after allegedly attempting to extort money from a Bradford couple in June.

An unknown woman phoned a couple on June 4. The caller threatened police action if the couple did not go to the bank and withdraw a certain amount of cash.

After complying with the demand, the woman instructed the victims to leave the money outside their home, located in the Holland Street West and Langford Boulevard area. A man picked up the cash and fled on foot to a nearby waiting vehicle.

A police investigation linked the scam to a European country. A search warrant was conducted at a Toronto residence Nov. 25.

Valentino Vajda, 34, of Toronto, is charged with robbery, extortion, possession of property obtained by crime and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence. He is also charged with breach of probation and fail to comply with recognizance.

Police seized several items at the Toronto residence.

The investigation is ongoing and police believe there may be other victims.

The accused was released with a future court date and conditions.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det.-Const. Ian Fenik at or , ext. 1059, or .