Suspect in doping, stealing from seniors nabbed in U.S.

A man who is alleged to have drugged several elderly people before looting their homes and fleeing has been arrested in Atlanta, Ga.

Police in Ottawa, Montreal and Sherbrooke have been after the man since December when several reports were made by senior citizens alleging that the man would pretend to be a potential homebuyer and would visit properties put up for sale by elderly owners. He would negotiate a deal to purchase the home, then convince the victims to sample chocolates he brought to celebrate the purchase. It is believed the chocolates were drugged, rendering the victims unconscious for several hours and allowing the thief time to ransack the home and flee.

In one case on Dec. 7, Ottawa police allege, the man entered a woman’s house near the intersection of Riverside Drive and Hunt Club Road posing as a prospective homebuyer. He then offered chocolates and wine to the victim, according to police. The victim lost consciousness after eating the chocolate and awoke to find money and other valuables missing from her home.

As many as six victims in Ontario and Quebec have reported similar stories to police.

The investigation led authorities to a suspect who was arrested entering the United States on March 31. He is being held pending the outcome of the extradition request.

According to police, Hamid Chekakri, 47, is now facing an extradition hearing to have him removed from the United States to face charges in Canada.

Police believe that Chekakri travelled frequently and that there may be other victims in other areas.

They are asking anyone with information to call the Ottawa police at 613-236-1222, ext. 2266. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).