The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) in northern Arizona has confirmed the arrest of two individuals linked to an elaborate, multi-state operation focused on counterfeiting currency. This scheme allegedly involved a process known as "bill washing" to illegally upgrade genuine paper money.

Investigation Uncovers Counterfeiting Operation

The Initial Stop and Discovery

YCSO's special crimes and K-9 units initiated an investigation on March 24 after receiving intelligence that a significant criminal activity was taking place. The investigation led deputies to Ash Fork, where they stopped and searched the suspects’ vehicle.

During the search, authorities located a suitcase containing a safe. Upon opening the safe, deputies found specialized paper intended for currency production. The search also uncovered ink, gloves, and partially printed $100 bills.

Understanding 'Bill Washing'

The YCSO special crimes unit determined that the evidence pointed toward participation in a "bill washing" scheme. This criminal method involves chemically removing the ink from legitimate currency notes.

Once the ink is removed, the paper is then allegedly re-printed to appear as higher-denomination bills. Officials stated that the seized materials alone were sufficient to produce an estimated $1.25 million in counterfeit currency.

Suspects Identified and Charges Filed

Details of the Arrests

The two individuals taken into custody were identified by the YCSO. The suspects are 40-year-old Leeclark Fallah, who resides in Las Vegas, and 46-year-old Kenneh Pisco.

Both men face multiple serious charges stemming from their alleged involvement. These charges include forgery, money laundering, criminal simulation, and fraud schemes, in addition to criminal possession of a forgery device.

The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the investigation into this multi-state counterfeiting case remains active and ongoing as of the statement released on March 31.