Counterfeit Bills Arrests in Clarkstown

RELEASE FROM CLARKSTOWN POLICE

The Clarkstown Police Department has arrested two male suspects in the last two days for passing counterfeit $100 bills in Nanuet and West Nyack. All businesses should verify the authenticity of any $100 bills being passed in their day to day transactions, police advise.

On April 28 at approximately 3 p.m. the Clarkstown Police Department received a call at the Lego Store in the Palisades Mall of a possible counterfeit $100 bill being passed at the store. Responding officers apprehended Ronald Vallejo, 17, of the Bronx. The suspect attempted to buy a small item with a counterfeit bill. At the time of his arrest, Vallejo was in possession of another fake $100.

About one hour prior to this incident, patrol officers responded to Gourmet Gardens on Rt. 59 in Nanuet for the same type of incident. The description of the suspect was identical to the other call. The officers were able to connect the suspect to both incidents. Vallejo was processed at police headquarters charged with possession of a forged instrument 1st (felony) and arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court. Bail was set at $5,000. He was transported to Rockland County Jail.

On April 29, 2015 at approximately 4 p.m. the Clarkstown Police Department received a call at a Matter of Health in Nanuet of a possible counterfeit $100 bill being passed at the store. Responding officers apprehended Ricky Lebron, 28, of the Bronx. He was arrested and processed at police headquarters. He was charged with possession of a forged instrument in the first degree (felony), petit larceny (misdemeanor) and harassment in the second degree (violation). Lebron was arraigned in Clarkstown Justice Court. Bail was set at $5,000. He was transported to Rockland County Jail.

The Clarkstown Detective Bureau is investigating both incidents. At this time, there is no connection between the two suspects. Please be alert for bills that appear to be fraudulent. Utilize counterfeit detection instruments to ensure the exchange of authentic currency.