Counterfeit suspects stopped in Hancock

Two suspects wanted in a potential counterfeit money scam were arrested on separate charges in Hancock Monday night.

Troopers from the Calumet Post of the Michigan State Police stopped a vehicle with Minnesota plates that matched the description of the car seen at the Holiday Station where the possible counterfeiting occurred around 7:40 p.m. Police say the suspects allegedly claimed that they had seen their pictures in the media and were concerned, prompting them to call the police. The pair allegedly went on to say that they told the police they were in St. Paul, Minnesota earlier that day, and they would turn themselves in within a couple days. St. Paul is approximately 6 hours away, by car, from Hancock. After being stopped, the suspects reportedly claimed that they were on their way to the police station to turn themselves in.

A subsequent investigation by troopers from the Calumet Post of the Michigan State Police led to the arrest of a 43-year-old male from Illinois for Operating Under the Influence of Drugs. Troopers also discovered precursors and evidence of IV drug use, marijuana, and an unknown powdery substance. A 32-year-old male passenger from Minnesota was also arrested for a valid Bench Warrant out of Houghton County for Child Support.

Troopers advised the other two occupants, both residents of Hancock, that they were released pending further investigation.

The case is being sent to the Houghton County Prosecutor’s Office for further charges. Counterfeiting is a federal felony handled by the U.S. Secret Service, and punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Troopers were assisted by the Houghton County Sheriff’s Department, the Laurium Police Department, the Hancock Police Department, and the State Police Canine Unit.