Effingham, Ill. – The Effingham Police Department has uncovered a local counterfeiting operation in Effingham.
In a published press release, EPD reported responding to “almost a dozen reports from local businesses and banks of counterfeit twenty dollar bills being passed.”
The initial investigation found that the bills were possibly from the same source.
However, further investigation by the EPD Bureau of Criminal Investigations led to the uncovering of a counterfeiting ring.
As of right now EPD Detectives along with the United States Secret Service have identified a substantial number of people of interest, and are now anticipating indictments on multiple felony charges from state & Federal Courts.
“Criminal Investigations Detectives wasted no time pursuing every lead in this case, canvassing each affected business as well as neighboring businesses for additional information.”
“A local business employee who had attended our counterfeiting training was essential in alerting our Department during
one incident.” stated EPD Chief Jeff Fuesting.
“Following up on every piece of new information led to identifying multiple persons of interest in this case.”
Fuesting continued on saying, “Our Detectives built a solid case based on evidence gathered from their complex investigation,”
“We believe there are more individuals in our community passing counterfeit currency and we will continue to seek out those individuals.”
“This type of work ethic and partnerships with federal agencies are essential to the Police Department’s commitment to protect our citizens and make Effingham a great place to live, work and raise our families.”
Any individual with additional information about these or any other crime is encouraged to call CRIMESTOPPERS at 217-347-6583 for cash rewards up to $1,000.
Individuals calling CRIMESTOPPERS may choose to remain anonymous.