by Former managers of a Mitsubishi dealership sue Toronto police
In Toronto, Canada, the police are being accused of unlawful prosecution and are facing a compensation claim of nearly 11 million Canadian dollars (approximately 7.7 million US dollars at the current exchange rate). Two former managers of a Mitsubishi dealership were arrested and charged with numerous crimes as part of a large-scale auto theft investigation. However, a year later, all charges against them were dropped. Now, the men are demanding that the police compensate them for the damage done to their careers.
Case details and arrest
The managers, Harris Boknek and Fadi Zeto, ran the Rouge Valley Mitsubishi dealership in Scarborough, Ontario, until the end of 2023. In the summer of the following year, police launched an investigation into the sale of stolen vehicles to unsuspecting buyers. Investigators alleged that the managers used fictitious sales contracts and purchased stolen cars using dealership funds.
The investigation began after an interview with the dealership owner. At the end of 2024, Boknek and Zeto were arrested. Boknek faced 92 charges, and Zeto faced 84. Both were preparing for trial. However, in September of last year, the prosecution dropped all charges, stating that there was no reasonable basis for a conviction.
Lawsuit and demands
The lawsuit filed by the former managers alleges that the local police “intentionally and deliberately sought to financially strangle both plaintiffs.” The men also note that their records were not cleared despite the case being closed and multiple attempts to restore their good name with the Toronto police.
The police may have to pay
According to Toronto Today, Boknek is seeking 4,040,315 Canadian dollars (2,849,000 US dollars) in general and specific damages, while Zeto is seeking 4,779,838 Canadian dollars (3,371,000 US dollars). Additionally, each man is demanding 500,000 Canadian dollars (352,000 US dollars) in aggravated damages and another 500,000 Canadian dollars (352,000 US dollars) in punitive damages. The lawsuit also demands a personal apology from the local police chief, Myron Demkiw.
Impact on career and life
The arrests of Boknek and Zeto prompted the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council to revoke their licenses, making it difficult for them to find work. It is alleged that Zeto had to move out of his home because he was unable to work for two years.
“The reckless, baseless, and highly public portrayal of the two plaintiffs by the defendants has permanently destroyed the plaintiffs’ ability to remain in their industry and earn a living,” the lawsuit adds.
This case highlights serious issues in law enforcement practices, where hasty and unfounded accusations can destroy people’s lives. While the police have the right to investigate crimes, they also bear responsibility for their actions. In this case, despite the lack of evidence, the men lost their jobs, home, and reputation. The trial could set a precedent, forcing the police to be more cautious when bringing charges, especially in cases with significant public attention. Importantly, even after all charges are dropped, arrest records remain in databases, which may continue to negatively impact people’s lives.
