HPD investigating reports of counterfeit bills

The Hillsboro Police Department is investigating a recent escalation in the circulation of counterfeit money being passed through businesses in the Hillsboro and Highland County areas. 

According to Chief Nick Thompson of the HPD, the department has been taking reports from individuals, and "We have also been contacted by a local bank which identified counterfeit money in business deposits."

Thompson said there have been approximately five individual reports in the past month. 

"The money being printed is $20s and $50s over bleached $5 bills," Thompson said. 

People handling bills should note, he said, that because the counterfeit money is being printed on actual money, it is harder to detect, and needs careful observation.

"We want the public and businesses to know the counterfeit bills will mark as being OK with a counterfeit pen," he said. "This is similar to things we've seen in the past." 

At this time, investigators are uncertain if it is being manufactured locally, or if it being brought into the county. 

"If anyone comes across any money they feel may be counterfeited, or have any information on persons counterfeiting money, please contact your local law enforcement," Thompson said. 

The HPD can be reached at (937) 393-3411.