Sioux Falls Man Enters Guilty Plea to Passing Counterfeit United States Currency

US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Christipher West, age 39, of Sioux Falls appeared before Chief US District Judge Karen E. Schreier on February 22, 2012, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with Passing Counterfeit United States Currency. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.

On July 14, 2011, at the Wal Mart on South Louise Avenue, West attempted to pass four counterfeit 20-dollar Federal Reserve notes, all bearing the same serial number. He also attempted to pass 10 counterfeit 10-dollar Federal Reserve notes, all bearing the same serial number. He used the counterfeit notes in an attempt to purchase merchandise at the store.

The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Kevin Koliner.

A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for May 11, 2012. The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.