Damariscotta Police Chief Steve Drake has issued a public alert asking for the public’s help in identifying individuals who are responsible for circulating counterfeit $20 bills locally. According to Drake, two counterfeit $20 bills have turned up in the Damariscotta area in the past month or so.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has investigated a case in the Jefferson area in which the serial numbers matched at least one of the bills found around Damariscotta.
“I believe that Damariscotta is the central point of distribution,” Drake said. “I have suspects but no proof yet, this is not yet a major undertaking for them yet, or they are traveling and are passing only a few bills here.
“Be extremely careful of 20 dollar bills as this seems to be the denomination that is preferred. Be watchful of someone purchasing a small item and paying with a 20 to get cash back. Be careful when you have a lot of customers as they will try to pass a counterfeit when they think you are distracted, this should be when your staff is especially watchful, Shoplifters use this same technique. Be careful of large cash purchases as they sometimes will slip in some counterfeit bills.”
In the event a counterfeit bill is passed and is recognized, Drake strongly advises caution. Do not attempt to hold anyone, but attempt to identify who is passing the bogus bill.
“I would also like to remind everyone that just because someone passes along a counterfeit $20 bill, they could be a victim just like you,” Drake said. “Counterfeiters historically are mostly con artists. This is changing as a lot of them are now drug abusers and are desperate to get a fix and this makes them dangerous to everyone around them.”
“If anyone hears any rumors as to who is doing this, please call me,” Drake said. “I will keep all calls and identity confidential. I can be reached by email chief@damariscottame.com, cell 380-3202, home, 563-2808 and of course work, 563-1909 work should be your first option as I am in the office more than at home.
“Remember that we cannot do our job without your help.”
