Burlington Woman, Denise Tisor, Arrested for Scamming Taylor Swift Fans
A Canadian woman, 43-year-old Denise Tisor of Burlington, Ontario, has been arrested for allegedly defrauding Taylor Swift fans out of approximately $70,000. Tisor, who operated under the alias “Denise Blackhawk,” reportedly used Facebook Marketplace to advertise fake tickets to the star’s concerts.
Tisor is facing multiple charges, including fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, 32 counts of fraud under $5,000, and 32 counts of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, according to the Toronto Police.
The Scheme
Operating online, Tisor would list Taylor Swift concert tickets for sold-out shows at Toronto’s Rogers Centre, promising various dates and seating arrangements. After a buyer agreed to purchase the tickets, they would transfer the payment electronically. Tisor assured buyers that the tickets would be made available just before the concert date. However, when the buyers tried to access their tickets, they found that they were never transferred.
When victims requested refunds, Tisor allegedly told them the money had been spent and was “gone.” Some victims felt personally connected to Tisor, having purchased tickets from her previously. A victim shared that she had exchanged text messages with Tisor and even received help from her to print tickets for a prior event.
Investigation and Victims
The scam unraveled as more victims came forward. One concerned individual started compiling a Google document to track the known fraudulent transactions, revealing that Tisor had sold the same tickets multiple times to different buyers. In total, 28 victims have been identified, and police suspect there may be even more.
Tisor’s past connections to some of the victims raised further alarm. One victim, an elementary school teacher, mentioned that Tisor’s children attended her school. According to the teacher, Tisor explained the tickets were sourced from a corporate connection, but the money was sent to a third party, who disappeared after receiving the funds.
Further Impact
Tisor is believed to have started the scam in August 2023. Toronto police have advised other potential victims to come forward. The case also highlights the vulnerability of fans to fraudulent ticket sales, as another family from Ottawa reported losing $15,600 after purchasing fake Taylor Swift tickets from an independent broker.
Tisor is scheduled to appear in court on January 10, where further developments are expected.
