(WEST PARRY SOUND, ON) – On August 2, 2016, the West Parry Sound Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), received a report from a citizen concerned about not receiving a marriage certificate after a wedding. The report was initiated after the victims believed that the person who presided over the wedding was not authorized to perform marriages.
OPP Investigation has thus far revealed that in June, 2016, a female who was known to the victims, presided over their marriage. The female also received monies for fees of services rendered during the ceremony. Concerned that they had not received their marriage certificate, the victims contacted the Registrar General’s Office and then the OPP.
Police also learned that in February, 2016, a second couple had the same female preside over their wedding. They too had run into difficulties receiving their marriage certificate. Police learned that the person who presided over the weddings was in fact not registered with the Province and as such, was not authorized to perform the marriage.
As a result of the investigation,
Michelle BUTTINEAU, 42 years of age from Parry Sound was charged with;
Pretending To Solemnize Marriage – Without Lawful Authority (X2), contrary to section 294(a) of the Criminal Code (CC)
Fraud Under $5000, contrary to section 380(1)(b) of the CC
Make Forged Document, contrary to section 367 of the CC
The accused is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on December 15, 2016 in Parry Sound.
The OPP are concerned that there may be more persons who have fallen victim to the accused.
Any person with information regarding this matter, should contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122 or 705-746-4225.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.