The annual Pottahawk Roundup, a popular event for boaters on Lake Erie, took a dark turn this year as police reported multiple incidents of theft, assault, and a romance scam.
According to Norfolk County OPP, the event, which took place on July 1st, saw a significant increase in criminal activity compared to previous years. Police responded to a total of 18 calls for service, including reports of theft, assault, and a romance scam.
In one incident, a 24-year-old man from Hamilton was arrested and charged with theft after allegedly stealing a boat from the Pottahawk Marina. The boat was later recovered and returned to its owner.
Another incident involved a 21-year-old man from Kitchener who was arrested and charged with assault after a physical altercation with another individual at the event. The victim sustained minor injuries and did not require medical attention.
In a more concerning incident, a 55-year-old woman from Brantford reported falling victim to a romance scam at the Pottahawk Roundup. The woman had met a man at the event and had been communicating with him for several weeks before he convinced her to send him money. The woman realized she had been scammed when the man stopped communicating with her after receiving the money.
Police are reminding the public to be cautious when meeting individuals at events and to never send money to someone they have only met online.
Despite these incidents, police reported that the majority of attendees at the Pottahawk Roundup were well-behaved and enjoyed the event without any issues.
The Norfolk County OPP is continuing to investigate these incidents and is asking anyone with information to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.helpsolvecrime.com.
The Pottahawk Roundup, which has been a popular event for boaters for over a decade, draws thousands of people to Lake Erie every year. It is unfortunate that a few individuals chose to engage in criminal activity, but the OPP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all attendees at this event.
