TL;DR: On July 31, 2026, 620 CKRM reported that Michael Paul Snow, 53, originally from Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, will stand trial after a preliminary hearing in Sechelt on July 27. Police allege he met a B.C. woman online in June 2023 and convinced her to invest $110,000 in a “fake business venture”. Police later identified more victims. The allegations are untested.
What happened
620 CKRM reports that Michael Paul Snow, 53, originally from Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, was charged with fraud over $5,000 after an investigation by the Sunshine Coast RCMP. Police say a man the victim met online gained her trust and convinced her to invest in a “fake business venture”, costing her $110,000. The fraud began in June 2023. These are allegations; Snow is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Timeline
- June 2023: the fraud began, according to police.
- June 24, 2025: Snow was arrested in Maple Creek and released.
- July 27, 2026: a preliminary hearing in Sechelt Provincial Court found enough evidence for trial.
- The case now goes to the Supreme Court of British Columbia to set a trial date.
More victims, a Canada-wide warrant
Police later identified additional victims linked to the alleged scheme and a Canada-wide arrest warrant was issued. The article does not give their number or losses. A publication ban covers the evidence presented at the preliminary hearing.
What the case shows
The “business venture” is a common romance scam shape: after trust is built online, the partner needs a joint investment or a loan to unlock a future together. Compare the case of a Durham man accused of running several romances at once and the Toronto crypto romance scam. It also took more than three years from the first alleged fraud to a committal for trial, so reporting early matters.
Red flags
- An online partner who brings up a business or investment opportunity.
- A request to put money in before you have met in person.
- Pressure to move quickly or keep the plan private.
- Promises of returns that never arrive.
Report to your local police and the CAFC; see our reporting guide. Run our free digital footprint check to see what is public about you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did the victim lose?
$110,000, according to police.
What is the status of the case?
A judge found enough evidence for trial after a preliminary hearing on July 27, 2026. The case goes to the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
Are there other victims?
Police say additional victims were identified and a Canada-wide arrest warrant was issued, but give no numbers.
Has Snow been convicted?
No. He is charged with fraud over $5,000 and the allegations have not been proven in court.
Sources
- 620 CKRM: Sask. man charged in $110K romance scam to stand trial (Jul 31, 2026)
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC)