Counterfeit Money Scam Reported in Darien

Darien police want residents to be on the lookout for counterfeit money being used a garage sales this summer.

A resident reported receiving a counterfeit $50 bill during a June 28 garage sale on the 9000 block of Brandon Road, according to a Thursday news release. Two people used the counterfeit bill to purchase an $8 item and received $42 in change of legitimate money.

The people were described as black and in their 30s, the release said. One was 5'5" and heavyset, the other was described as tall with an average weight. The two suspects left in a red vehicle.

Darien Police are in contact with Riverside Police, who received a similar report in their jurisdiction on July 20. The departments are sharing investigative leads, the release said.

Police urge residents to scrutinize larger bills being used for payment. If multiple bills are being used for payment, check to see that the serial numbers are not the same. Newer bills have watermarks and a security strip, the release said. Additional information on U.S. Currency security features can be obtained from the Secret Service web site newmoney.gov.

If you suspect you have received a counterfeit bill, please do the following:

• Contact the Darien Police by calling 911
• Provide as much information as possible on the vehicle or description of suspected individuals, including direction of travel, to the police dispatcher
  
• Do not detain suspects or get into an altercation
  

Please contact Darien Police or Darien City Hall at 630-852-5000 if you have additional questions on garage sales or permit requirements. The city wishes its residents continued success with their garage sales.

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