Arrest warrant issued for Ryan Kenzie in Edmonton online marketplace fraud
Edmonton police have issued an arrest warrant for 46-year-old Ryan Kenzie in connection with a string of online marketplace frauds that involved fake e-transfer confirmations. Investigators say the accused allegedly met sellers in person after claiming to have paid by e-transfer, then left with high-value items despite no funds being sent. Police are asking anyone who may have been targeted to contact investigators as inquiries continue.
Arrest warrant issued and remains outstanding
Edmonton police confirmed an arrest warrant is active for Ryan Kenzie, who faces charges tied to multiple alleged fraudulent transactions. The warrant follows a new set of allegations reported after his release from custody and a period on probation. Investigators have not yet located Kenzie and say the matter remains an active priority for the EPS fraud unit.
Description of the alleged e‑transfer scheme
According to police, the alleged scam targeted private sellers listing items such as phones, watches and jewelry on online marketplaces. The accused would meet sellers in person, show what appeared to be an e-transfer confirmation and then depart with the merchandise before the seller verified receipt of funds. Investigators stress the transfers were not completed and the confirmations were deceptive, leaving sellers without payment.
Previous convictions and subsequent charges
Police records show Kenzie was previously convicted of nine fraud-related offences tied to incidents in Edmonton and Sherwood Park between April and October 2025. He served a sentence for those convictions and was released on probation, after which EPS officers say further allegations emerged. Authorities are examining whether the recent charges represent a continuation of the earlier pattern or a distinct series of incidents.
Investigators seeking additional victims and evidence
EPS investigators are actively gathering information to establish the full scope of the alleged scheme and identify other potential victims. Officers say the repeated nature of the reported incidents indicates the accused may have targeted multiple sellers over time. Anyone who believes they were defrauded, saw suspicious activity, or has dashcam, doorbell or other footage related to a transaction is being urged to contact police.
Police recommend monitored exchange zones for transactions
To reduce the risk during private sales, Edmonton police recommend using the EPS Buy and Sell Exchange Zones located in police station parking areas. Those zones are designed to be well-lit and monitored by video, providing a safer setting for in-person transactions than secluded or private locations. Police emphasize verifying electronic payments in person and confirming funds have actually arrived before handing over any items.
Advice for buyers and sellers using online marketplaces
Sellers are advised to wait for confirmed payment clearance rather than trusting screenshots or messages that claim a transfer was made. Buyers and sellers should complete transactions in public, observable places and, where possible, use methods that offer proof of payment and traceability. If a transaction feels rushed or if a buyer pressures a seller to release goods before funds are verified, police say that is a red flag.
Victims can assist investigations by preserving all communications with the accused, including texts, emails and app messages, and by noting the details of any meeting such as time, location and vehicle descriptions. Photographs of items, screenshots of communications, and any available surveillance footage can provide critical evidence for investigators tracing the pattern of alleged offending.
EPS also encourages the public to exercise caution with trades that involve high-value items and to consider using secure, traceable payment services. Speaking with local police about safe transaction practices and arranging meetings at the designated exchange zones can reduce opportunities for fraud and help protect both buyers and sellers.
Anyone in Edmonton who believes they were defrauded in a marketplace transaction, or who has information about the whereabouts of Ryan Kenzie, is asked to contact Edmonton Police Service to report the incident. Providing detailed information promptly will aid investigators working to link incidents and hold those responsible to account.
