Police arrest 2 in Coastal Georgia Facebook Marketplace counterfeit cash scheme – WJCL

Two people have been arrested in Coastal Georgia after investigators linked them to a counterfeit currency scheme targeting Facebook Marketplace sellers, WJCL reported.

Counterfeit cash used in Gallery Way neighborhood exchange

The investigation began on Oct. 9 after officers responded to a fraud report in the Gallery Way neighborhood. The victim told police they exchanged merchandise for cash before realizing the bills were counterfeit. When the victim attempted to stop the transaction, the suspect fled. The victim described a woman and a Toyota SUV to responding officers, who then canvassed the neighborhood and collected surveillance footage to identify the vehicle as a Toyota Highlander.

Hotel room search yields drugs and printing equipment

Two days later on Palisade Drive, Officer Sullivan responded to another counterfeit bill report at a local hotel. A second victim had also arranged a Facebook Marketplace sale, received fake currency, and recorded the encounter on a cellphone. Sullivan spotted a Toyota Highlander matching the vehicle from the earlier case parked at the hotel. With help from the victim and hotel employees, officers identified the room where the suspects were staying.

Officers arrested Phillip Pyles, 26, on an active warrant, while Casaundra Moore, 34, was arrested on a theft by deception charge. A subsequent search of the hotel room uncovered a printer, sheets of counterfeit money, additional fake bills, 27.72 grams of cocaine, 44.9 grams of methamphetamine, 13 prescription pills, drug-related objects, and multiple cellphones. Police stated that additional charges have been filed against both suspects in connection with the fraud scheme and drug possession.

Active investigation and police safety advice

The Glynn County Police Department stated that the investigation remains active and more charges are possible. Authorities advised residents conducting online sales to meet in well-lit public places and check cash carefully before completing any transaction. Anyone with information is asked to contact the police department’s nonemergency line at 912-554-3645, or submit anonymous tips through Silent Witness at 912-264-1333.