Counterfeit Cash and Retail Theft Crackdown in Waterbury

In a coordinated effort, state and local law enforcement in Waterbury, Connecticut, have apprehended three individuals suspected of involvement in a counterfeit currency and retail theft operation. The investigation, which spanned multiple locations, has shed light on the growing problem of financial fraud and its impact on local businesses.

Uncovering a Sophisticated Scheme

Suspicious Activity Leads to Arrests

State police detectives and Waterbury police officers were conducting a proactive operation in the area of Union Street in Waterbury on Monday when they observed suspicious activity involving two vehicles in a retail establishment's parking lot. Their vigilance paid off as they were able to identify and apprehend the individuals associated with the vehicles.

Counterfeit Currency Used for Purchases

Around 2 p.m., store employees and detectives discovered that two people associated with the suspicious vehicles had purchased at least $840 worth of merchandise using counterfeit money. Determined to uncover the full extent of the scheme, the law enforcement team followed the vehicles and observed the individuals attempting to use counterfeit currency at two additional retail locations on Wolcott Street and Bank Street in Waterbury.

Coordinated Effort Leads to Arrests

The collaborative efforts of the state police detectives and Waterbury police officers resulted in the detention of three suspects in the parking area of the third store. The individuals were identified as Lemuel Gravesande, Alisa Mingo, and Anthony Roberts. A search of their possessions revealed an additional $1,100 in counterfeit $20 bills, as well as receipts from the initial retail location where the fraudulent purchases were made.

Charges and Bail Conditions

Based on the evidence gathered, all three suspects were taken into custody and charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree forgery and conspiracy to commit fifth-degree larceny. Gravesande and Roberts were released on a $50,000 surety bond and scheduled for arraignment at Waterbury Superior Court on October 1st. Mingo, however, was held on a $50,000 bond and was arraigned on Tuesday at the same court.

Ongoing Investigation and Implications

The arrests in this case highlight the growing problem of counterfeit currency and retail theft, which can have a significant impact on local businesses and the broader community. The coordinated efforts of state and local law enforcement demonstrate their commitment to addressing these issues and protecting the integrity of the financial system. As the investigation continues, authorities will likely work to uncover the full extent of the criminal network and any potential connections to larger-scale operations.