KAILUA-KONA — The Hawaii Police Department has collected $120 in counterfeit bills after receiving reports of fake $20 and $100 bills circulating in businesses throughout the Kailua-Kona area, authorities confirmed Monday.
Police first heard reports about the fraudulent money last week. Lt. Sherry Bird said money was used in transactions at gas stations along Kuakini Highway and at Jack in the Box.
“At first glance, the counterfeit currency appears to be genuine; however, closer inspections have found the texture of several bills to be similar to computer paper,” according a Monday press release. “In addition, the fraudulent bills lacked any of the security features found on legitimate currency. Counterfeit detection pens have also assisted in detecting counterfeit money.”
The department encourages community members and businesses to be aware of the many security features embedded in legitimate U.S. paper currency.
Details about these security features can be found by visiting the U.S. Secret Service website at www.secretservice.gov and then clicking the “Know Your Money” link found under the “Investigation” tab at the top of the page.
If a counterfeit bill is located, police ask that it be treated as evidence by placing it into an envelope and calling authorities immediately.
Anyone with information about the manufacturing, possession or distribution of counterfeit money should call Police Department’s nonemergency number at 935-3311 or Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.