The Athens-Clarke County Police Department has made three arrests regarding counterfeit money. On July 9, employees told authorities a woman passed multiple counterfeit $20 bills during the day. Officer then located and detained 44-year old Jennifer Pittman at the scene.
Police were led to a hotel room at 1050 Ultimate Drive where two suspects, 39-year old Mathew Smith and 47-year old Joseph Sanders, both of Athens, were located.
They are charged with Forgery (2nd degree). Sanders is also charged with Giving a False Name, and Pittman was charged with two 1st Degree Forgery counts for passing Counterfeit Currency and one count of 2nd Degree Forgery for possessing counterfeit currency.
Police say there has been a spike in the use of counterfeit bills due to groups using $10 and $20 bills.
“Local businesses should train employees to be on the lookout for counterfeit currency, even in smaller denominations,” that’s according to Detective Nathaniel Franco. “Larger counterfeit bills, $50's and $100's, are often scrutinized more by employees and are often discovered, but smaller bills aren't scrutinized as much. The bills do not feel like real money and the watermarks are missing. A very cursory examination by employees will lead to less of the bills being passed.”
ACCPD reminds cashiers to inspect all currency they receive during cash transactions. If local businesses believe an individual is using counterfeit currency, they should contact the ACCPD via 9-1-1.