NY State Police Seek Help Identifying Suspect in Lansing ACE Hardware Counterfeit Bill Incident
On July 7, 2025, a woman entered the ACE Hardware on N. Triphammer Road in Lansing, New York, and reportedly attempted to confuse the employee by asking to exchange bills. During the encounter, the suspect passed a fake $10 bill marked with the word “replica.” New York State Police at Ithaca are actively seeking public assistance to identify the individual involved in this incident.
Incident Overview
According to preliminary reports, the suspect engaged the cashier with a series of rapid, seemingly incongruent requests designed to distract and disorient the employee. The confusion culminated when the suspect presented a counterfeit $10 bill to be used as legitimate currency. The bill, imprinted with “replica,” clearly indicated its fraudulent nature. This tactic, reminiscent of classic quick change scams, has prompted a focused investigation by local authorities.
Method and Modus Operandi
Quick change scams typically involve the suspect targeting retail establishments and capitalizing on moments of high distraction. In this case, the suspect’s efforts to disrupt normal cash transactions reflect a broader pattern of financial scams. The intentional use of a counterfeit bill not only undermines trust in everyday transactions but also signals an organized approach—relying on distraction and rapid exchanges to exploit human error in busy settings.
Legal Ramifications
In New York State, passing counterfeit currency is treated as a severe offense. Under New York Penal Law, individuals involved in using or possessing a forged instrument, such as counterfeit money, can face felony charges. Specifically, charges for Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the First Degree carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison. On a federal level, federal counterfeiting laws may generate even harsher sentences. Law enforcement emphasizes that for a conviction, prosecutors must establish that the suspect knowingly passed the counterfeit bill with fraudulent intent.
Community Call to Action
New York State Police urge anyone with information regarding this incident or the identity of the individual in the provided image to come forward. Community members who recall observing the suspect or have any details that might assist the investigation are requested to contact NY State Police at (607) 561-7400 and reference case number NY2500562006. Tips and information provided will be kept confidential to ensure the safety and privacy of those assisting with the case.
Preventive Measures and Retail Vigilance
In light of similar scams in retail environments, authorities advise retailers to enhance employee training on recognizing counterfeit currency and handling unusual cash exchange requests. Employing detection tools such as counterfeit pen markers or UV scanners, and encouraging staff to remain composed during high-pressure transactions, are critical steps in minimizing the risk of fraud. The community is reminded that timely reporting of suspicious transactions can help law enforcement identify patterns and protect both business owners and consumers.
Ongoing Investigations
Local police are reviewing security footage from ACE Hardware and other nearby establishments to gather additional evidence. As the investigation will likely involve cross-checking similar incidents in the region, authorities stress that community engagement remains an essential component of solving such cases. Additional details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with relevant information about the incident or the person pictured is strongly encouraged to share tips with NY State Police. The active involvement of community members is vital for maintaining public safety and ensuring that incidents like this are addressed swiftly and effectively.
