Credit card purchases at Clarington hardware store leads to charges for Toronto, North York men

A Toronto man and North York man have been charged in connection to an investigation into fraudulent credit purchases at a hardware store in Clarington.

Durham Regional Police launched an investigation last month after two suspects used a fraudulent credit card at the Home Hardware located at 2423 Rundle Road to purchase material and tools valued at over $11,000.

One male suspect was arrested on Thursday, May 23 and a second was arrested on Tuesday (June 4).

Giuseppe Natale, 55 of Toronto is charged with fraud over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

David Gottardo, 58, of North York is charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, unauthorized use of credit card data and fail to comply with undertaking.

Natale was released with a promise to return to court and Gottardo, pictured above, was held for a bail hearing.

It is believed the other victims may have been defrauded.

Anyone who has been defrauded by the suspects or has any further information regarding this or similar incidents is asked to call Det. Chapman at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5352.

Information can also be left anonymously by calling Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca.