Counterfeit bills seized from Asante James, a 21-year-old from Freeport, Illinois, have landed him in hot water.
Asante James, a 21-year-old from Freeport, Illinois, has admitted to a counterfeit charge in West Virginia. According to court documents, James pleaded guilty to one count of ‘Possession of Counterfeit Obligations.’
In December 2020, James was found to be in possession of 69 $100 counterfeit bills in Ritchie County. The discovery was made by the United States Secret Service, the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Charleston Police Department.
James now faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael Aloi presided over the proceedings.
James’ next court appearance is expected to finalize the outcome of his case. The full details of the sentencing will be revealed at that time.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of counterfeit crimes in West Virginia. The United States Secret Service, the Ritchie County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Charleston Police Department worked tirelessly to bring James to justice.
Related Federal Cases
- Matthew James Elsea, Fentanyl Trafficking, West Virginia 2024 · Illinois
- James Johnson, Meth Distribution, West Virginia 2022 · Ohio
- James Johnson, Gun Possession, West Virginia 2022 · North Carolina
- Asante James, Counterfeit Currency, Freeport IL, 2021 · Ohio
- Dallas Lewis, Mail Fraud Conspiracy, West Virginia 2024 · Illinois
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →

