Banff Illegal Work Case Ends With $70K Fine Conviction

A joint investigation by the Canada Border Services Agency and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police has led to the conviction of an Ontario man involved in illegal employment activities in Alberta’s Banff region.

Kevin Kielty pleaded guilty in the Alberta Court of Justice on March 2, 2026, to two charges related to the unauthorized employment of foreign nationals. The court sentenced him to two years of probation, 50 hours of community service, and a fine of $70,000.

The investigation began in June 2022 after law enforcement agencies, including the Ontario Provincial Police and Barrie Police Service, shared information about suspected immigration violations. Authorities discovered that a group of foreign nationals was travelling from Ontario to Alberta to work illegally in the hospitality sector, particularly in hotels located in Banff National Park.

Further investigation revealed that around 90 foreign workers from Mexico were employed without proper authorization across four resort hotels in the Banff and Jasper regions. These activities were allegedly coordinated by an employment agency called One Team, owned by Kielty.

Kielty was charged under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for employing foreign nationals without authorization and for encouraging them to work illegally in Canada. This case marks his second conviction under the same law. In a previous case in November 2023, he had pleaded guilty to similar offences and was sentenced to 18 months of house arrest.

Officials said the case highlights the importance of cooperation between multiple law enforcement agencies in addressing immigration fraud and protecting vulnerable workers. Authorities emphasized that such illegal practices can exploit foreign workers and undermine the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.

Gary Anandasangaree stated that the successful conviction demonstrates how strong collaboration between federal and provincial agencies helps ensure accountability and justice. He also praised the efforts of investigators involved in the case.

The CBSA has encouraged the public to report suspicious immigration-related activities through its Border Watch Line, stressing that community involvement plays an important role in identifying and preventing such offences.

Overall, the case serves as a warning to individuals and businesses that violations of immigration laws will be taken seriously, and strict action will be enforced to maintain fairness and safety in the labour market.