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ACCPD Arrests Three for Counterfeit Currency

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ACCPD
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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.

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Credit ACCPD
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Joseph Sanders

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. 

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Credit ACCPD
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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.”

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Credit ACCPD
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Matthew Smith

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.