On April 19th, 2022 The ALERT Regional Property Crime Unit (RPCU) & MHPS concluded an investigation into three adults suspected of producing and distributing counterfeit Canadian currency within Medicine Hat. Police were notified of a small number of retailers receiving counterfeit notes throughout the month of April. The investigation culminated on April 19th with a residential search warrant being conducted & three adults taken into custody. Electronics used to produce the notes & a small amount of counterfeit currency were seized from the suspect residence. Denominations of 20’s, 50’s and 100’s were part of the items seized.
2 of the three adults arrested face charges of:
- Breach of a Conditional Sentence Order
- Making Counterfeit Money
- Possession of Counterfeit Money
- Possession of Stolen Property
The names of the accused individuals will not be released at this time as the charges have not yet been sworn to in front of a justice of the peace.
What to do if you suspect that you have been offered a counterfeit note during a transaction:
Assess the situation to ensure that you are not at risk. Then do the following:
- Politely refuse the note and explain that you suspect that it may be counterfeit.
- Ask for another note (and check it too).
- Advise the person to check the note with the local police.
- Inform your local police of a possible attempt to pass suspected counterfeit money.
Be courteous. Remember that the person in possession of the bill could be an innocent victim who does not realize that the note is suspicious.
What to do if you suspect that a note is counterfeit after a transaction:
- Give it to the local police. If it’s real, you’ll get it back.
Either way, the police should be informed of possible counterfeiting activity in your community. Timely reporting helps police and prosecutors bring counterfeiters to justice.
Media Contact:
S/Sgt Kelsey Fraser
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8410