MLPD warns about fake $20s
Employees handling cash are being told by Moses Lake police to examine $20 bills or use counterfeit money detection pens to ensure the bill isn't fake.
MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Police Department is warning fast food businesses about fake $20 bills passed at a Stratford Road fast food restaurant.
The three $20 bills were given by customers making purchases at a drive-through and leaving, on Thursday and Friday, according to an email sent by a Moses Lake police detective to the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce Friday.
The suspects were described to police as older teens dressed as "skaters." They were riding in a dark blue or black Ford Explorer.
The counterfeit bills lacked security strips and the face of President Andrew Jackson.
Moses Lake police Capt. Dave Ruffin recommends employees handling cash check bills to ensure they're not counterfeit.
Counterfeit money detection pens can be found at Staples and Walmart, according to both businesses' websites.
"Businesses can call us if they have a suspicious bill, but the easiest and best way is to physically examine the bills," Ruffin said.
Fast food businesses are susceptible to the problem because of the volume of customers they experience, making it inconvenient for employees to stop and check every bill.
Problems are usually found later. It's important to check the bills as they're coming in.
Ruffin is circulating information about the bills to fast food businesses in town.
To reach Moses Lake police about employee education or to report counterfeit bills, call 509-764-3910.