The Weyburn Police Service (WPS) laid charges last week, related to an ongoing investigation into circulating counterfeit currency.
Deputy Police Chief Shane St. John says while they sometimes fail to update the public, the matters they investigate do see progress.
“When I say an investigation is ongoing, it's not just something to put out in the media, it is ongoing. And it shows in this circumstance, the two suspects were found responsible, and they knew what they were doing, and they were charged accordingly.”
“I think it's good to update the public when we have a positive outcome and people held responsible for their actions.”
This matter followed a public awareness bulletin the WPS issued after numerous reports of counterfeit $100 bills in circulation. St. John says it was through multiple businesses' description of the culprits that they were able to be identified.
“Some were unfortunately, really defrauded out of their money due to counterfeit bills.”
St. John says the bills were likely purchased online, as printing bills is more difficult due to modern developments in minting currency. The WPS or Bank of Canada website can be referenced for methods of determining if bills are counterfeit.
The WPS is reminding local businesses to be vigilant when handling cash, particularly high-value bills. If a business owner or employee is suspicious that counterfeit currency was used, they are advised to get information and contact the WPS.
“Get good details about who brought it in, if they're suspected of bringing that in. See what kind of vehicle they're driving away with. If you can get a plate number without putting yourself in any kind of jeopardy, get a plate number when they're leaving.
"I'll never tell someone that's working to put themselves at risk by confronting someone. That's not fair to that person.”
St. John comments on this incident and other circulating scams saying, “there are so many people that are trying to defraud people nowadays, it's unbelievable.”
“There are always new scams. It's really unfortunate. And counterfeiting, you don't see a lot of luckily, but someone's always trying to scam something.”
The identified suspects have been charged and will appear in Weyburn Provincial Court.