We’ve received reports of an increase in counterfeit “Motion Picture” money circulating in our area. Businesses and individuals alike should be extra cautious when handling cash transactions.
What to Look For:
- Movie prop money often has disclaimers printed on it, such as “Motion Picture Use Only” or “This is not legal tender.”
- The bills may look and feel similar to real money, but close inspection will reveal discrepancies in color, texture, or printing quality.
- Some prop money may even have different denominations than real currency, such as $1000 bills.
Important to Remember:
- Possessing counterfeit money is not necessarily a crime, but using it for payment is a felony.
- If you receive counterfeit money, do not spend it or attempt to pass it on to someone else.
- Report it immediately to the Pineville Police Department.
The Pineville Police Department wants to remind everyone:
- Using counterfeit or prop money as payment is a serious crime.
- Convictions can result in fines of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for at least 6 months.
Stay vigilant and protect yourself from becoming a victim of counterfeit money scams.
Example of Movie Prop Money:
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Pineville Police Department at (318) 442-6603.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping to keep our community safe.
Additional Tips:
- Use a counterfeit money detector pen to check the authenticity of bills.
- Be familiar with the security features of real U.S. currency, such as the raised printing, color-shifting ink, and watermark.
- If you suspect a bill is counterfeit, do not handle it directly. Wear gloves or use a piece of paper to pick it up and place it in a secure envelope.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of counterfeit money scams. You can also view the United States Treasury Department’s guide by going to pinevillepd.com/knowyourmoney