Kamloops RCMP are asking store owners and employees, as well as members of the public, to be on the lookout for a suspect after three commercial locations were hit with fake currency on March 8 and 9.
On those two days, the Kamloops RCMP detachment received reports involving counterfeit bills used at retail stores on the 900-block of Columbia Street West, the 500-block of Notre Dame Drive, and the 1000-block of Hillside Road over a 24-hour period. The incidents are believed to be related, and involved fake Canadian $20 polymer bills.
“As part of the investigation so far, police have received a suspect image from the Notre Dame location and are releasing it in the hopes that someone will recognize the suspect and contact police,” said Cpl. Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP detachment spokesperson.
The suspect is described as a six-foot-tall Caucasian male weighing about 180 pounds, with brown hair and a short brown beard. He was wearing a surgical mask.
The fake bills were seized by police and sent to the National Anti-Counterfeiting Bureau.
Any individual who, knowingly or not, accepts a counterfeit banknote bears the loss. In other words, there’s no reimbursement if you accept a fake. In Canada, it is a criminal offence to knowingly use or keep counterfeit money.
The financial loss from accepting a counterfeit note can be significant for individuals and businesses alike. Whether it’s a small or large business, the loss incurred from accepting a single counterfeit $100 note can affect a day’s profits or lead to increased prices, which are ultimately borne by the consumer.
Anyone who recognizes the Kamloops suspect, has dash camera footage that may have captured his movements, or has more information is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP detachment at (250) 828-3000 and reference file 2025-6694. If you would like to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
