In April 2026, officers located a trailer that had been fraudulently listed for sale online and determined its VIN had been tampered with.
The investigation led to a search warrant executed in May, where officers recovered stolen property including trailers, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and ATVs. Many of the recovered items showed signs of VIN defacement or alteration; a tactic known as “re-vinning” that is used to disguise stolen property for resale.
Peter Fryer, 68, was arrested on May 26, 2026, and is facing numerous charges including possession of stolen property (x2), trafficking stolen property over $5,000, tampering with VIN (x2), uttering forged document, and fraud.
Police believe Fryer may have used online marketplaces and fraudulent documentation to sell stolen vehicles and trailers, at times operating through legitimate businesses.
“We recognize that some people may have unknowingly purchased vehicles or trailers they believed were legitimate, when in fact they were stolen and re-vinned. Those individuals are victims in this as well,” says Constable Kailyn Bellmond of EPS West Branch. “If you’ve had any dealings with this individual, we encourage you to come forward.”
Peter Fryer, 68
If you are thinking about purchasing a second-hand vehicle, motorcycle, trailer or other large ticket item, use one of the EPS Buy and Sell Exchange Zones, which are well-lit and video monitored. Also, verify the identity of the seller before completing the transaction and avoid paying with cash. Be highly suspicious if an individual demands cash. For vehicles, buyers can contact a registry agent to secure a vehicle information report prior to purchasing the vehicle.
Anyone with any information about this or any other crime is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.