Windsor Police Issue Alert and Seek Suspect in Counterfeit Currency Case
Windsor police have issued a public warning to business owners following the discovery of several counterfeit $100 bills circulating in the local area. Authorities are urging vigilance and have launched an investigation into the matter, which includes a search for a female suspect connected to incidents in Amherstburg.
Details of the Amherstburg Incidents
According to police reports, on January 18, a woman allegedly used a fake $100 bill to purchase a small item at a grocery store located in the 80 block of Sandwich Street South in Amherstburg. Later that same day, the suspect is believed to have attempted to use another counterfeit $100 bill at a variety store. However, an employee at the second location recognized the bill as fraudulent and refused the transaction, prompting the woman to flee the scene.
The suspect was captured on the store's surveillance system and is described as a white female, approximately five-foot-six-inches tall, with a medium build, blonde hair, and false eyelashes. She was seen leaving in an older-model Dodge Ram pickup truck.
Police Warning and Investigation
Windsor police officials have stated that several counterfeit $100 bills with noticeable inconsistencies are currently in circulation. They are reminding businesses to carefully inspect large-denomination bills and report any suspicious activity immediately.
This incident is part of a broader concern, as in November, Windsor police issued an arrest warrant for a man accused of operating a counterfeit currency scheme that targeted multiple stores across the city. In that case, the suspect allegedly used fake bills to purchase merchandise, returned the items for real cash, and then re-purchased the same products with more counterfeit money.
How to Help
Anyone with information about the Amherstburg incidents or the female suspect is asked to contact the Windsor Police Service financial crimes unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at catchcrooks.com.
Police emphasize the importance of community cooperation in combating financial crimes and protecting local businesses from fraud.
