Faux Film Currency Circulating in Lower Keys Sparks Warning to Businesses
Monroe County Sheriff’s Office warned businesses and residents after reports of prop bills marked for film use circulated in the Lower Keys, including Key West. Deputies urged careful inspection of cash following a related Key West Police alert about fake $20s and asked anyone with information to contact MCSO.
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The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office on Monday issued a caution to businesses and residents after receiving reports that faux currency — prop bills marked for film use — had been circulating in the Lower Keys, including Key West. Deputies emphasized vigilance when accepting cash and pointed to a recent Key West Police alert about counterfeit $20 bills as a related concern for the community.
Law enforcement officials described the items as prop money rather than standard counterfeit currency, noting the presence of markings identifying the notes as for film use. Nonetheless, the circulation of such bills can cause confusion at retail locations, restaurants and among residents who rely on cash transactions. The sheriff’s office advised merchants and members of the public to inspect bills carefully and be aware of possible irregularities.
The advisory underscores an immediate consumer protection and enforcement challenge for Monroe County, where tourism and small businesses form a major part of the local economy. Cash transactions remain common in many Lower Keys businesses, and the introduction of deceptive or substitute currency raises the risk of financial losses for retailers and service providers who may be unaware they accepted non-negotiable bills.
Monroe County deputies asked residents with information about the incidents to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 305-292-7000. The request for tips suggests investigators are seeking to determine the scope of the circulation, identify the source of the prop bills and prevent further incidents. The alert from Key West Police about fake $20s, referenced by the sheriff’s office, indicates multiple law enforcement agencies are tracking related reports.
Beyond the immediate investigation, the episode highlights broader policy and operational issues for county and municipal leaders. Local officials and business groups may consider reinforcing outreach on how to identify suspect currency and strengthening reporting channels for quick notification of law enforcement. Training for employees in high-cash sectors and clear public guidance can reduce the risk of losses and help preserve public confidence in routine transactions.
For now, Monroe County residents and businesses are urged to exercise caution when accepting cash and to report suspicious bills or transactions to law enforcement. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to call the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office at 305-292-7000.
