From left to right: Kim Huse, Brittany Waltrip, and Jeremy S. Herman. 

Fortuna Police Dept. Press Release:

Recently the Fortuna Police Department has seen an increased number of incidents involving counterfeit currency and as a result, the department began conducting a formal investigation in an attempt to uncover the source of the counterfeit currency.

On Sunday, October 27, 2013, as a result of the ongoing investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for a residence located in the 3900 Block of Rohnerville Road and just after midnight this morning, the search warrant was served.

During the service of the search warrant, officers located multiple items confirming counterfeit currency was being manufactured at the residence. Officer seized approximately $2,000.00 in counterfeit 100’s and 20’s as well as printers, a computer and other equipment used to manufacture the counterfeit currency.

Subsequently, officers arrested, 22 year old Jeremy S. Herman, 19 year old Brittany Waltrip, and 48 year old Kim Huse all of Fortuna.

The subjects were booked on the following charges:

Penal Code Section 480(a) – Possession of equipment for producing counterfeit currency. Penal Code Section 470(d) - Possession of counterfeit currency
Penal Code Section 182(a) - Conspiracy

“There are several victims when fake money is produced and passed. Victims include the unsuspecting citizen, the merchant and the United States Government”, said Officer R. Bontty. “We must all guard against becoming victims by diligently examining the bills in our possession.”

If you encounter any suspected counterfeit currency, contact your local law enforcement agency.

For more information on how to detect counterfeit money, visit www.secretservice.gov/know_your_money.shtml

The department is continuing its investigation and asks that anyone who may have information related to this investigation contact the department or use our WeTip Hotline if they want to remain completely anonymous.