Wanted Fraud Suspect “Dr. Perez” Apprehended in St. Andrew Employment Scam

St. Andrew, Jamaica – January 6, 2026: Authorities have arrested a man wanted in connection with a multi-million-dollar overseas employment scam, following a coordinated operation by the Fraud Squad of the Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) and the Half-Way Tree Police Station. The arrest was aided by surveillance footage from Jamaica Eye.

The suspect, 52-year-old Horace Haughton, also known as “Dr. Perez” or “Dr. Maddison”, had been repeatedly featured on the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Wanted Wednesdays Campaign. Haughton, who has no fixed address, was intercepted in St. Andrew and now faces multiple charges, including:

• Conspiracy to Defraud
• Engaging in Transactions Involving Criminal Property
• Receiving Stolen Property (Two Counts)
• Obtaining Money by Means of False Pretence
• Operating an Employment Agency Without a License
• Unlawfully Making Available Device or Data for the Commission of an Offence

Investigators say Haughton, together with Sharlene Edwards, operated an unregistered business between August and October 2025. The duo reportedly recruited over 200 individuals, collecting more than JM$7 million under the pretense of securing overseas employment. Police were alerted after applicants failed to receive the promised jobs.

Edwards was previously arrested in November 2025 and remains in custody. She is scheduled to appear in court again on January 22, 2026.

The breakthrough in Haughton’s capture came after investigators reviewed Jamaica Eye CCTV footage, which led to the interception of his vehicle in the Half-Way-Tree area.

Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC described the arrest as a strong start to the year for fraud enforcement efforts. “We are sending a clear message that those who exploit hardworking Jamaicans will find no safe haven,” Superintendent Barrett said. He added that the Fraud Squad is intensifying the use of technology and collaboration with partners to not only secure convictions but also pursue the forfeiture of assets obtained through illegal activity.

The Constabulary Financial Unit of C-TOC is assisting with the investigation to recover assets linked to the accused.

Members of the public are reminded to report suspected fraud by contacting C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311, or visiting the nearest police station.