A Georgetown man operating a law firm in Brampton is facing charges after allegedly defrauding several clients by withholding funds from the estates of dead relatives.

“The investigation began after several unrelated victims came forward to the Law Society of Ontario with complaints that a Lawyer was withholding funds in trust accounts from being dispersed (sic) to clients after the death of their loved ones,” Peel police said in a Tuesday news release, adding investigators believe there may be more victims.

Police said 63-year-old Shawn Kelly Campbell was charged on Jan. 11 and appeared for a bail hearing in Brampton court that same day.

Const. Bancroft Wright said Campbell is facing one charge of defrauding the public based on allegations from 13 alleged victims.

“The accused operated a law office in the Brampton area specializing in family law, real estate, wills and estates,” police said.

“Peel Regional Police are dedicated to the protection of individuals and groups in our community. In many Fraud related cases, people in vulnerable situations are coerced, manipulated and taken advantage of for the profit of the fraudster,” added the release.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Peel police fraud bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 3335. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.

Graeme Frisque is a reporter with The Mississauga News and Brampton Guardian. Email: gfrisque@metroland.com

Read more about: