November 26, 2025
SPS News Release

File: 24-14786 (SU)

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

The RCMP investigation examined allegations of financial irregularities as 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. The alleged fraud is believed to have resulted in an estimated loss of $2.5 million to the City of Surrey.

On November 18, 2025, 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 December 2, 2025. Investigators have concluded their investigation and are working closely with the BC Prosecution Service to complete the disclosure process.

 

Media Relations

Staff Sergeant Lindsey Houghton
Senior Media Relations Officer