Who is Benoit Laliberte in this case?

Benoit Laliberte is a businessman named in a Quebec tax fraud investigation tied to 13 seized properties. Authorities seek to recover amounts allegedly owed to Revenu Québec and the CRA. He has not been arrested in this probe, and the allegations have not been proven in court.

What did Quebec police seize, and why does it matter?

Police restrained 13 properties valued at about C$13.5 million in connection with a tax fraud investigation involving Benoit Laliberte. The move preserves assets for possible recovery by tax authorities. It also signals tighter enforcement and higher compliance expectations for real estate and private lending in Canada.

Can property be seized without an arrest in Canada?

Yes. With court authorization, police can restrain assets during an investigation. Revenue agencies can also pursue civil recovery of assessed tax debts. In the Benoit Laliberte matter, no arrests were made as of February 19, yet properties were seized pending further legal steps and evidence review.

How should investors respond to these Quebec police seizures?

Increase KYC depth, confirm beneficial ownership, and document source-of-funds. Add tax compliance covenants, check Quebec land titles and RDPRM charges, and review title insurance. If exposure links to Benoit Laliberte, enhance monitoring, revisit collateral, and plan for delays or valuation impacts from potential asset restraints.

Law and Government

Benoit Laliberté: Quebec Seizes $13.5M in Real Estate — February 19

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 19, 2026February 19, 2026

Benoit Laliberte is at the centre of a tax fraud investigation that triggered Quebec police seizures of 13 properties worth about C$13.5 million. As of February 19, no arrests were made, and the probe continues. Authorities aim to recover funds allegedly owed to Revenu Québec and the CRA. For Canadian investors, these Quebec police seizures highlight rising enforcement and asset forfeiture Canada risk across private real estate and lending. We explain the facts, the legal context, and how to protect portfolios without overreacting.