Earlier this week, the Edmonton Police Service received several reports regarding fraudulent tickets purchased for the Taylor Swift concert. Concert-goers attended the show on Aug. 4, 2015 and were turned away at the door when scanners indicated the tickets had already been used.
Police have connected six of these reports to Beckie Junkins, a 32-year-old woman from Edmonton. She was arrested without incident on Aug. 5, 2015 and is charged with fraud under $5,000 (x6) and uttering a forged document (x6).
It is reported Junkins posted concert tickets for sale on Facebook and Kijiji and made arrangements to meet with buyers in person.
From May 4 to July 27, Junkins allegedly met with six complainants throughout the city and exchanged black and white printed ticket copies for cash or electronic money transfer. Many of these ticket copies were for the same seats.
Investigation by Northeast Division officers revealed Junkinswas also in possession of duplicate tickets for other events such as Mumford & Sons, Foo Fighters and Eric Church. Police believe these fraudulent tickets were also offered for sale online.
Beckie Junkins’ photo is being released because there may be additional complainants who purchased fraudulent tickets from her. Police believe Junkins sold tickets using other names.
Beckie Junkins, 32
Anyone who purchased concert tickets from this individualis encouraged to attend a divisional station and provide a statement. Bring the tickets and reference EPS File 15-112353.
The Edmonton Police Service reminds citizens to use caution when purchasing tickets or property from non-licensed vendors.