Two Halton residents have pleaded guilty at the Milton courthouse after admitting their roles in a large-scale scam that left more than 100 people without tickets for Taylor Swift’s sold-out Toronto shows.
Fraud that targeted fans
Denise Tisor, who used the alias Denise Blackhawk, admitted in court that she took payments from concertgoers by claiming she could secure seats for Swift’s six November 2024 concerts at the Rogers Centre. Tisor told purchasers they would receive their tickets shortly before the events; in the end, none of the 107 people who bought from her ever obtained the tickets they paid for.
In total, the pair extracted $265,330 from victims. Some individuals paid as much as $5,100, according to the court disclosure. The Crown says a portion of the money was transferred to Davide Blake, who has also entered a guilty plea.
Gambling losses and charges
Court documents indicate the two spent almost $140,000 on online gambling, with losses exceeding $56,000. Tisor pleaded guilty to one count of defrauding the public; Blake pleaded guilty to one count of possession of property obtained by crime. No sentencing date has yet been set.
- Victims: 107 people who purchased fake tickets
- Total taken: $265,330
- Largest individual payment reported: $5,100
- Gambling outlay: nearly $140,000; losses over $56,000
| Item | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Total taken from victims | $265,330 |
| Spent on online gambling | ~$140,000 |
| Gambling losses | >$56,000 |
The case sheds light on the wider risks facing people seeking tickets to high-demand events: fraudulent sellers can exploit eager buyers, and the financial consequences can be substantial. Local authorities and consumer protection agencies frequently warn buyers to use verified outlets and to be cautious of sellers demanding payment in advance without secure ticket transfer procedures.
For those who believe they may have been defrauded in similar circumstances, it is advisable to keep all records of communication and payments and to contact police and consumer protection services promptly. The court will determine the penalties for the pair at a later date.
This matter was heard at the Milton courthouse; the defendants are residents of Burlington. Further updates, including sentencing details, will follow as hearings proceed.
