EP. 97 | Fighting Fraud on the Frontlines with Toronto Police Det. David Coffey
Description
Detective David Coffey has spent more than 25 years with the Toronto Police Service, tackling everything from violent street crime to complex financial fraud. In this episode, he joins Ari, to unpack the evolving nature of fraud in Canada — and how crypto is changing the game.
Now assigned to the Financial Crimes Unit, Det. Coffey reflects on his journey from divisional beat cop to leading major fraud investigations. From account takeovers to human trafficking links, he shares firsthand how organized crime has adapted its playbook — and why cryptocurrency is increasingly the payment method of choice.
But more than tracing funds, Det. Coffey's mission is about public education. With scams like pig butchering and sextortion on the rise, he makes a compelling case that fraud prevention must start with awareness. Det. Coffey and Ari cover:
- How Canada is responding to cross-border crypto crime
- What the Toronto Fraud Intake Office is revealing about scam trends
- The critical role of exchanges in asset recovery
- Why better data and collaboration are essential to solving financial crimes
Det. Coffey's message is clear: Crypto can be traced, but we need stronger tools, smarter partnerships, and an informed public to truly turn the tide.




