‘Funny money’ circulating around Gallup

By Leslie Wood
Staff writer

GALLUP — Counterfeit U.S currency has circulated throughout many local convenience stores within recent weeks, according to the Gallup Police Department.

Lt. Rick White, a spokesman for the agency, said the Mustang, 800 E. Coal Ave., Lowe’s Uptown Shop ‘N Save, 1120 E. Hwy. 66, and Mustang, 3302 W. Hwy. 66, have fallen victim to the scheme since April 20.

The store’s employees have accepted counterfeit $5 bills — all of which were described as poor quality fakes. The bills were most likely produced through a color photo printer.

“They’re obviously fake — from the texture, ink and markings,” White said.

The police department’s detectives are reviewing video surveillance footage taken from each of the stores to determine whether any additional evidence can be gathered in the case. So far, no arrests have been made in connection with the passage of illegal currency.

White said local officers could charge the culprits with state fraud charges or they could face federal offenses.

He encouraged local business employees to pay close attention to the money they accept. Inexpensive pens can also be purchased to determine whether the bills are valid.

“If the employee doesn’t like the way the money looks, they shouldn’t take it,” White said.