Former City of Surrey worker charged with allegedly embezzling $2.5M

Four charges have been laid against a former City of Surrey worker, accusing them of fraud in the amount of $2.5 million.

In early 2024, the Surrey RCMP Economic Crimes Unit began an investigation into a significant fraud reported by the City of Surrey.

Investigators alleged that a municipal employee accessed the financial systems and created a series of fraudulent files in connection with their official duties over an extended period of time.

On Nov. 18, the BC Prosecution Service approved the following charges against 40-year-old Sunny Catlin:

Count 1: in connection with the duties of her office, committed fraud or a breach of trust, by issuing and depositing cheques from the City of Surrey without authority and for her own benefit, contrary to Section 122 of the Criminal Code.

Count 2: did by deceit, falsehood or other fraudulent means defraud the City of Surrey, of money of a value in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), contrary to Section 380(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.

Count 3: committed theft of money, the property of the City of Surrey, of a value in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), contrary to Section 334(a) of the Criminal Code.

Count 4: did commit forgery by knowingly making false documents, City of Surrey deposit release authorization packages, with intent that they be used or acted upon by the City of Surrey as if they were genuine, contrary to Section 367(a) of the Criminal Code.

Sunny Catlin’s first court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 2. Investigators have concluded their investigation and are working closely with the BC Prosecution Service to complete the disclosure process.

In response to the charges, the City of Surrey issued a statement on behalf of Mayor Brenda Locke: “While I am unable to comment on the investigation as the matter is before the courts, I do want to thank the Surrey RCMP Economic Crimes Unit and all investigators involved for working to ensure accountability in this case. The City of Surrey remains committed to transparency and integrity in all its operations.”