Police investigating counterfeit bills passed at Cedar Rapids businesses

The Cedar Rapids Police Department is investigating several incidents in which counterfeit $100 bills were passed at businesses earlier this week.

According to the police department, at least three businesses received counterfeit bills that investigators said all have the same serial number.

Investigators have also obtained surveillance photographs of a person believed to be involved in the three incidents.

Anyone with information regarding the incidents or who can identify the person in the surveillance photographs is asked to contact the Cedar Rapids Police Department at 319-286-5336 or Linn County Crime Stoppers at 800-272-7463.

The Police Department said people and businesses can take precautions to identify counterfeit bills. When accepting bills, look for red and blue fibers embedded throughout the bill. Also, look for watermarks that can be seen when the bill is held up to the light.

The Police Department also encourages use of counterfeit currency pens. These pens will either cause the ink to run or react to the starches of paper in counterfeit money.

If you suspect a counterfeit note or have information about counterfeiting activity, contact the Cedar Rapids Police Department.

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; kat.russell@thegazette.com