Trio busted for using counterfeit travelers checks in St. Matthe - wave3.com-Louisville News, Weather & Sports

Trio busted for using counterfeit travelers checks in St. Matthews

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By Katie Bauer - bio | email
The three suspects were caught at the Buffalo Wild WIngs in the Shelbyville Road Plaza. The three suspects were caught at the Buffalo Wild WIngs in the Shelbyville Road Plaza.
Sgt. Charlie Portman Sgt. Charlie Portman

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) – A search warrant leads investigators to more merchandise purchased by a group using counterfeit checks in St. Matthews. Police say the suspects traveled from Atlanta with thousands of dollars worth of fake travelers checks.

So far St. Matthews Police recovered $4000 worth of counterfeit checks.

"The counterfeit checks were very well made and if someone was uneducated as to what to look for on these, it could easily be passed," said Sgt. Charlie Portman, St. Matthews Police.

Police say they were used at multiple shops in the Shelbyville Road Plaza and at Oxmoor Centre over the weekend.

"What they would is purchase something for a low amount, $25- $30 and receive the rest back in cash," said Portman.

St. Matthews Police say Eric Thomas, Landry Antley, and Trekena Etharidge of Georgia are responsible. Even though, while in town, they used fake id's.

"They were hundred dollar denominations and they were from American Express," said Portman.

They booked a one night stay at a nearby hotel, but before they could head out their trip was halted after a visit to Off Broadway Shoes. A clerk ran the check through a scanner, when she realized it wasn't legit.

"From that point the local merchants in that area were notified that the counterfeit travelers checks were being passed around the area," said Portman.

Later that night, the group attempted to use them again in the same area. "Buffalo Wild Wings contacted St. Matthews Police Department that individuals were attempting to pass counterfeit travelers checks to pay for their meals," said Portman.

The three were arrested at the restaurant and taken to jail. A search warrant allowed police to search their car and hotel where they discovered even more purchases and police believe Louisville may not be the only city this group visited.

"I'm sure that's there is going to victims from all along the interstate route from Atlanta to Louisville," said Portman.

The two men are being held on a $100,000 bond. The woman is being held on a $50,000. All three are due back in court October 11.

Copyright 2012 WAVE News. All rights reserved.

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