Counterfeit Cash Scandal Rocks Tobyhanna

A 31-year-old Tobyhanna man has been slapped with a 21-month prison sentence for passing off $8,500 in counterfeit currency at two area casinos.

Jason Mitchell, who pleaded guilty in September 2015 to conspiracy to pass counterfeit United States Federal Reserve Notes, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge James M. Munley in Scranton yesterday.

According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, Mitchell was charged in an indictment by a grand jury in November 2014. The indictment alleged that Mitchell conspired with others to receive, exchange, transfer, and pass the counterfeit $100 Federal Reserve Notes at the Mount Airy Casino in Mount Pocono and the Mohegan Sun Casino in Plains on various dates in June 2014.

Along with Mitchell, two others from Tobyhanna – Andrew Turner, 28, and Michael Turner, 22 – were also charged in the indictment. However, both are still awaiting trial.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Gaming Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski handled the prosecution.

The sentencing of Mitchell marks another blow to those involved in passing off fake currency in the region. However, it remains to be seen whether this will have any impact on the activities of those still awaiting trial.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Peter Smith said, ‘This case demonstrates the Secret Service’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting individuals who engage in counterfeiting activities.’

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