An 18-year-old from southern Alberta is facing serious counterfeiting charges following a failed attempt to buy an iPhone using fake $100 bills, according to the Lethbridge Police Service.
Marketplace Transaction Leads to Discovery of Fake Cash
Police were called on Friday, January 8, 2024, after a seller reported a suspicious transaction. The seller had met with a buyer to sell an iPhone through Facebook Marketplace. The buyer paid with nine $100 bills, completing the purchase.
The trouble began when the seller attempted to deposit the cash. The bank machine repeatedly rejected the bills, prompting the seller to contact authorities. An investigation was immediately launched.
Police Uncover Obvious Flaws in Counterfeit Bills
Upon examination, police confirmed the currency was counterfeit. While the paper texture felt similar to real money, the fakes had several glaring flaws.
In a news release issued on Monday, January 12, police detailed the discrepancies. Seven of the nine bills shared the same serial number, a major red flag. Furthermore, the bills lacked the raised ink found on genuine Canadian banknotes.
The most telling sign, however, was hidden under stickers. The perpetrator had placed stickers over the bills' transparent security windows. When police removed them, the words 'copy' and 'prop money' were clearly printed underneath.
Suspect Arrested, iPhone and Evidence Seized
The investigation led police to a suspect. Dylan Anthony Macko, 18, of Nobleford, was arrested without incident during a traffic stop in Lethbridge on Saturday, January 10.
A search of Macko and his vehicle yielded significant evidence. Police recovered the recently purchased iPhone, six additional counterfeit $100 bills, and the stickers used to conceal the markings on the fake currency.
Macko has been charged with four offences:
- Making counterfeit currency
- Uttering/using counterfeit currency
- Possession of counterfeit currency
- Possession of the proceeds of crime
Nobleford is located approximately 150 kilometres southeast of Calgary. Macko was released from custody following his arrest and is scheduled to make his first court appearance on January 23, 2024.
A Warning for Online Sellers
This case serves as a cautionary tale for individuals selling high-value items on online marketplaces. Police advise sellers to be vigilant and to verify large cash payments whenever possible. Checking for security features like unique serial numbers, raised ink, and transparent windows without obstructions can help prevent falling victim to similar scams.
