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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Fake 'Motion Picture Use Only' Currency Circulating Around DeKalb

DeKalb Police Department

Bogus money is circulating around DeKalb.

The currency says “MOTION PICTURE USE ONLY” where the words “THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” should be, according to police officials.

DeKalb Police Commander Steve Lekkas

DeKalb police officials say about six incidents were reported within the last week or so about the bills – which do not have watermarks, color-shifting ink or a security thread – being used as legitimate money.

DeKalb Police Commander Steve Lekkas says authorities are collecting video surveillance of the offenders.

“We do have some leads we’re following up on, but it’s too early to give out any information,” Lekkas said.

Lekkas says similar crimes have happened before in the area.

“A lot of times, it’s people that are not from here,” Lekkas said, “because when we get the video, if it’s somebody that we’ve dealt with locally very regularly, we’d easily be able to identify them.”

Police officials say they encourage businesses and citizens to take the time to look more closely at money they receive.