NAPD makes arrests in counterfeiting operation; alert retail clerk tips police

Arrests have been made in a significant counterfeiting operation in northeast Mississippi. The key tip came from an alert retail clerk at Union Grocery and Supply Company (formerly Stokes) in New Albany, Wednesday evening, Feb 22.

A man and a female accomplice entered the store about 8 o’clock Wednesday and tried to cash one or more payroll checks. The clerk carefully examined the check and the identification of the person seeking to cash the check. The clerk suspected the authenticity of the documents and called police.

Officers of the New Albany Police Department (NAPD) arrived moments later and took into custody:

• Stevie Lynn Pace, age 40, a white male who used the alias “Michael Moore.” Pace is believed to have lived previously in Mendenhall.
• Carrisa Elizabeth Moore, age 37, a white female who used the alias “Kari Janet Sisk.” She is believed to be from the Booneville area.

Counterfeit items seized by New Albany Police Dept.

NAPD officers found that Pace and Moore were in possession of several thousand dollars in U.S. currency. They also had about $400 in counterfeit U.S. currency. The pair had 70 forged payroll checks. Most of the phony payroll checks were on Ashley, a furniture manufacturer located in Ecru.

NAPD Chief Chris Robertson said Pace and Moore would be arraigned before a judge Thursday evening. Robertson said charges would include uttering a forgery and possession of counterfeit U.S. currency.

Chief Robertson said he believed it likely that other businesses here and in nearby counties may already have been victims of the pair. He cautioned all retailers, banks, etc. to be alert to forged checks.

The chief said NAPD had already been contacted by Corinth law enforcement officials Thursday afternoon and believes Corinth may have a case against the pair arrested in New Albany.