PERU – A 27 year-old transient has been arrested in a sting operation after allegedly using counterfeit currency to purchase pizza in Peru. Since late December, according to Peru Police Chief Doug Bernabei, there was an ongoing investigation into fake $100 bills being used in LaSalle and Peru.
In four separate occasions, different pizza restaurants had received calls from a man in the 2200 block of Market St requesting delivery. He would claim to have only a $100 bill and ask that the driver carry suitable change. The transaction would take place on the sidewalk and the driver would give $80 in change, being told they could keep the rest as a tip. Area businesses were notified and asked to contact authorities if they received another suspicious order.
Last evening a caller placed an order with a restaurant asking for a sausage and pepperoni thin crust pizza to be delivered to Market St stating he had to pay with a $100 bill. Peru police were notified and an officer, with cooperation of the business, used a uniform and a delivery vehicle to contact the subject and make the transaction. A take down team was in position and arrested without incident was 27 year-old Joshua David McKinley. He was taken to LaSalle County Jail with bond yet to be set on a Class 3 Felony charge of Forgery.
Chief Bernabei advises all residents to be on the lookout for suspicious bills, but feels this was an isolated incident. The investigation is ongoing by the Peru and LaSalle Police departments. (Photo LaSalle Co Jail)
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