Watch out for counterfeit bills

Published 10:58 am Friday, August 9, 2013

POULSBO — Local businesses have reported counterfeit currency in the last week or so, according to the Poulsbo Police Department.

Poulsbo Detective Valerie Nau said the perpetrators are “trying to pass off smaller bills, thinking it’s easier.” Most of the counterfeit bills are $10 or $20, but there have been $1 and $50 bills as well.

Nau said businesses should use standard protections — holding the bill up to the light to look for the watermark, or using a counterfeit detector pen which reacts with iodine (something genuine banknotes should not have). Nau said “if it doesn’t seem right,” don’t take the money or ask for another bill.

Police have a suspect vehicle — silver or pearl-colored — but are asking for more information from businesses that report the counterfeits. Nau said one business reported two suspects who left the store quickly when the employee noticed the money was counterfeit.

Convenience stores, roadside coffee stands and box stores, including Walmart, have reported the counterfeit money. One report even came from a garage sale.

Nau said police have leads, but did not disclose details because of the active investigation. She said to call 9-1-1 to report if you have received counterfeit bills.