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FRANKLINTON, La. – The Franklinton Police Department, in collaboration with the United States Secret Service, is actively investigating a counterfeit currency case circulating within the area, authorities reported Thursday, Jan. 25.

According to officials, the counterfeit scheme involves the alteration of $5 bills, which are “washed” and subsequently reprinted to resemble $50 denominations. These forged bills have been detected at various retail establishments and financial institutions across the region, prompting a concerted effort to address the issue.

Law enforcement has issued a cautionary advisory to citizens, banks, and retailers, urging heightened vigilance when handling currency, particularly in denominations of $20, $50, and $100. While the counterfeit bills may appear authentic upon cursory inspection, disparities in security features, such as differing security strips and identical serial numbers, have been identified as red flags.

Franklinton Police Chief Justin Brown said, “Residents should look out for counterfeit bills by checking the security strip, which should match the denomination of the bill. Additionally, counterfeit bills may have the same serial number.”

In response to the ongoing investigation, authorities have urged anyone who comes into possession of suspected counterfeit bills or encounters individuals attempting to pass them to promptly report the incident to the Franklinton Police Department. The public is encouraged to contact the office at 985-839-2977 to provide any pertinent information related to the case.