San Andreas, CA — Enough businesses and banks in Calaveras County have reported seeing counterfeit currency that the sheriff’s office is sending out to the public a heads up alert.
Sheriff’s officials say that most of the recently discovered phony notes seen or successfully circulated are one-hundred dollar bills, with the majority of the instances concentrating in and around Valley Springs.
Preventable measures can be taken, as law enforcement officials note, by more closely examining currency. As some are not easily detectable as counterfeit, businesses not already well-familiar with the color, clarity, quality and safety features of U.S. currencies should keep current on them. Tips for detecting counterfeit currency are available on the U.S. Treasury website. The sheriff’s office adds that simple, reasonably priced devices sold online such as the Dri Mark Products Tri-Test Ultraviolet Counterfeit Detection System can assist in identifying counterfeit currency.
If someone attempts to pass counterfeit currency to you, Calaveras County officials recommend that if it is at all possible, try to delay the person with some excuse and contact law enforcement — but only if you can do so without putting yourself in danger. Too, they say, there is always the chance that the person attempting to pass the counterfeit may not be aware that the bill is a phony one. Observe personal details of the passer and any companions so you will be able to accurately recount their descriptions to deputies; also write down vehicle license plate numbers if you can.
Other tips from law enforcement: if you suspect you have a counterfeit note are to write your initials and date in the white border area of the bill but otherwise do not handle it more than necessary. Instead, place it inside a protective cover, a plastic bag, or envelope to protect it until you are able to place it in the hands of an identified police officer or an agent of the Secret Service, which has been alerted to this recent local activity.
If you suspect a counterfeit note or have information about counterfeiting activity please report it immediately to the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office by calling 209 754-6500.