Counterfeit Cash Hits In-N-Out; Two Arrested in Long Beach

Counterfeiting Scheme Targets In-N-Out Restaurants: Arrests Made in Long Beach

In a significant development in Glendale, California, two Long Beach residents have been arrested in connection with a counterfeit currency scheme that targeted multiple In-N-Out restaurants across Los Angeles and Orange counties. This operation began on October 21, when Glendale police received a report about fake currency being passed at an In-N-Out branch. The quick response from the police department led to an investigation that revealed a larger, organized effort to defraud these popular fast-food locations.

Investigators quickly connected the dots after identifying a pattern of counterfeit transactions that plagued several In-N-Out restaurants. By collaborating with the restaurant’s security teams, detectives utilized surveillance footage and executed search warrants to determine the identities of the suspects involved. Auriona Lewis, 24, and Tatiyanna Foster, 26, emerged as the primary suspects in this ongoing criminal scheme. The organized nature of their actions indicates a well-thought-out strategy to exploit the restaurant chain, further complicating the issue for both law enforcement and the affected businesses.

On October 30, Auriona Lewis was apprehended in Palmdale, where authorities found significant evidence against her. During her arrest, she was discovered with counterfeit bills that mirrored those reported in the Glendale incident. Additionally, law enforcement recovered gift cards and various transaction receipts, suggesting her deeper involvement in the counterfeiting operation. This arrest marked a crucial step in unraveling the network of criminals involved in the counterfeit scheme targeting In-N-Out locations.

Following Lewis’s arrest, Tatiyanna Foster was captured on December 15 at the Glendale Police Department. The precise details surrounding Foster’s arrest remain undisclosed, but it’s clear that both women played integral roles in orchestrating this counterfeit operation. The LA County District Attorney’s Office has subsequently charged Lewis with felony counts of counterfeiting and grand theft. Foster’s legal proceedings are still unfolding, with her court appearance expected soon. These developments highlight law enforcement’s commitment to tackling fraud and protecting local businesses.

Authorities have emphasized the importance of immediate reporting for anyone who might become a victim of counterfeiting. Prompt reporting can significantly assist law enforcement agencies in their investigations, allowing them to act swiftly to prevent further incidents. As such, police have urged anyone with information related to the In-N-Out counterfeiting cases to reach out to them at 818-548-4840. This call for vigilance underscores the collective responsibility of the community to remain alert and aware of criminal activities that may affect local businesses.

In conclusion, the arrests of Auriona Lewis and Tatiyanna Foster represent a significant victory for law enforcement in tackling counterfeit operations that threaten local businesses. The investigation, sparked by a single incident of counterfeit currency, unveiled a broader conspiracy that targeted a beloved fast-food chain. As the legal proceedings move forward, the case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat financial crimes and the crucial need for community engagement in reporting suspicious activities. By remaining vigilant and proactive, residents can help safeguard their neighborhoods against fraud and protect local establishments from similar criminal enterprises.