Police say, on Friday May 8th, 2015 uniformed officers with One District, St.Catharines responded to six calls for service involving the passing of counterfeit American currency. In each of these six occurrences, two to three black males entered the respective businesses purchasing anywhere from one to several items and paying for them with counterfeit American currency. These males were seen travelling in a dark coloured BMW sedan.
Police are asking retailers to educate their staff. You have the right to refuse suspected counterfeit currency and to contact Police immediately.
There are a number of security features in U.S. bills and the following website illustrates security features found in genuine American currency:
http://www.secretservice.gov/know_your_money.shtml
Some of the highlights are:
– counterfeit passing tends to take place during busy times
– pay particular attention to customers who pay with banknotes of much higher denomination than necessary. For example they purchase an item/service for $10, pay with $100 U.S. bill and in return receive $90 + in CDN cash
– when possible keep the note and immediately record relevant information. Police will request a physical, clothing and vehicle description, time of day it happened, etc
– if the note is genuine it will be returned to you
Police remind the public, do not attempt to apprehend anyone you suspect is passing counterfeit currency. Allow them to leave the store and contact police immediately.
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