Eight charged in Norval Morrisseau forgery ring after Barenaked Ladies musician's suspicion

An extensive investigation spanning two and a half years has resulted in charges against eight people for supposedly running a forgery operation that produced counterfeit artworks attributed to Canadian Indigenous artist Norval Morrisseau. The Thunder Bay Police Service disclosed that three gangs were involved in creating these paintings under exploitative conditions, including the use of underage artists. Among those charged is Benjamin Paul Morrisseau, the nephew of the late artist. Authorities confiscated over 1,000 suspected forgeries, some of which were sold for tens of thousands of dollars. The inquiry was initiated when Kevin Hearn, a collector from Barenaked Ladies, raised concerns about a canvas he had acquired. Morrisseau, who passed away in 2017, was celebrated for his unique style that merged Anishinaabek legends with European influences. The accused face 40 charges encompassing forgery, fraud, and involvement in a criminal organization.