Man pays Middletown water bill with fake cash

A local incident of counterfeit money used to pay a water bill highlights a seasonal crime trend, law enforcement officials say.

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On average, $100,000 in counterfeit money is taken in monthly for southern Ohio, which includes the Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus areas, according to Secret Service Agent Kevin Dye of the Dayton office.

“As the holidays approach, more counterfeit is received due to heavy cash intake for shopping. Retailers should carefully look at cash received during the holidays and call police if suspicious,” Dye said.

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Middletown police are currently investigating counterfeit money used by a resident to pay a water bill.

A man paid a $200 water bill on Oct. 26 with a $100 bill and five $20 bills, according to Barbara Bradley, the city’s assistant finance director.

Middletown Police confirmed with Fifth Third Bank that the $100 bill was counterfeit, according to a police report. A video of the transaction was recovered for evidence.

No charges have been filed against the man, according to Middletown Police Lt. Scott Reeve.

This news outlet is not naming the man because he hasn’t been charged.

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