Arrests Made For Passing Counterfeit Bills

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office has reported that two Bowling Green residents have been arrested and are facing charges for passing counterfeit one hundred dollar bills in Edmonson County.

The sheriff's office reported that they received a complaint on Saturday, April 29th that a phony $100 bill had been used at an undisclosed location and another attempt had been made to pass one at Saling's Grocery on Nolin Dam Road. 

After an investigation, both witness statements and security footage were obtained and the suspects were identified as Jami M. Edwards (46) and Richard E. Spears (53), both of Bowling Green. 

Jami M. Edwards, 46, Bowling Green (Hart Co. Jail)

Richard E. Spears, 53, Bowling Green (Hart Co. Jail)

Front of phony $100 bill. Pink Chinese lettering was altered with pink marker.

Back of bill with Chinese lettering easily noticed.

​Both were arrested today by the sheriff's office with the help of the Grayson County Sheriff's Office in the Annetta Community of Grayson County. 

They were served arrest warrants for Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 1st degree, which is a class C felony. Officials reported that the case is still ongoing and more arrests and charges are possible.

The sheriff's office said that the bills used were identified as Chinese training notes, which are designed to train bank tellers in handling and identifying foreign currency. Officials said the bills specifically had the Chinese symbols altered with a marker to make the bills look more legitimate.

The sheriff's office said they believe there are similar bills in local circulation, and ask that small businesses in the community and surrounding counties be aware and to contact authorities immediately if more bills are seen.

If convicted, each could face up to 10 years in jail and up to a $10,000 fine.

​*Comments without a first and last name and an email address are not published. All comments are subject for review and must adhere to the Edmonson Voice commenting policy which is posted on this site.