The Frederick Police Department has seen an increase in reported cases of counterfeit money...
Counterfeit Money Alert: The Frederick Police Department, working closely with the U.S. Secret Service and police departments across the state, are warning customers and businesses about an increase in counterfeit currency – particularly $50 bills – which are being passed on to businesses throughout the region. Many suspects have been identified and law enforcement agencies are continuing to assist the Secret Service with additional leads. Anyone encountering suspected counterfeit money is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency for assistance.
This year the Frederick Police Department has taken four reports for counterfeit $50 bills being passed within the city. In addition to the counterfeit $50 bills, the Frederick Police Department has also taken three reports of counterfeit $20 bills being passed.
The U.S. Secret Service offers a variety of ways about how to detect counterfeit bills. This link will explain some of those ways to differentiate between real and counterfeit money:
http://www.secretservice.gov/money_detect.shtml
If you believe you have received a counterfeit bill, the U.S. Secret Service advises you to do the following:
• Do not put yourself in danger.
• Do not return the bill to the passer, if possible.
• Delay the passer with some excuse, if possible, and call police.
• Observe the passer’s description and their companions. If possible, write down their
vehicle license plate numbers, vehicle description and direction of travel.
• Do not handle the counterfeit note. Place it inside a protective cover, a plastic bag, or
envelope to protect it until you place it in the hands of law enforcement.
Author: Sgt. Aaron Lapp 301-600-6390
alapp@frederickmdpolice.org