TORONTO, Ont. – Toronto police have charged two men in connection with a money-laundering investigation involving over $500,000 in cash.

Police said a man went to an east-end money-transfer business near Warden and Lawrence avenues in June with three duffel bags stuffed with $20, $50 and $100 bills, totalling $520,250.

The accused tried to wire-transfer the money to a location in Los Angeles, through his account, previously set up by him using a false name.

The business refused to complete the transaction, returning part of the money.

Police said the remaining cash was returned after threats were made against the business owners and one of their family members.

Ainsley Drakes, 45, of Richmond Hill faces six charges, including document and passport forgery and attempted money laundering.

Andrew Wilson, 42, of no fixed address, is charged with conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.

Drakes is scheduled to appear in court onTuesday, while Wilson’s first court date is set for Oct. 25.

Police believe the accused may have committed similar offences in the Greater Toronto Area.