The Paso Robles Police Department is issuing a warning about
an increase in counterfeit money use and is asking for your help in solving
this crime. On Monday, May 6th, at approximately 11:15 am, an unknown male
entered the Alliance Board Shop, 1233 Park St. The man selected a pair of socks
and paid with a 100-dollar bill and was given change for the transaction. It
was later discovered the bill used was fraudulent. The man was last seen
wearing a black and grey flannel jacket, black hat and blue jeans. The man was
described by witnesses to be in his mid to late 20’s with a medium build. The
man was last seen getting into a black 2000-2002 Lincoln LS.
Officers then responded to 1222 Spring St. for a second
report counterfeit money being passed at the business. In this incident, a
heavyset man with a goatee purchased a $100.00 gift card with a counterfeit
$100.00 bill and left the business. The man was described by the victim as
5’08” to 5’11” 300 lbs. with a goatee and tattoos on his forearms.
While investigating the prior incidents, PRPD received two
additional calls regarding subjects attempting to pass fraudulent $100.00 bills
at Napa Auto and Dollar General. PRPD officers were able to obtain video
footage of the suspects who matched the description from the previous cases.
The Paso Robles Police Department is seeking the public's
help in identifying the men responsible. PRPD reminds business owners to check
currency to ensure its authenticity before completing transactions.
If you have information on this crime or any other crime,
call the Paso Robles Police Department at 805-237-6464.