MERIDIAN, MS – A pair of Argentine tourists learned the hard way that American laws don’t take vacations. Gonzalo De La Fuente, 23, and Alejandro Boynak, 35, were each sentenced to 17 months in federal prison yesterday for their brazen attempt to pass counterfeit $100 bills in Meridian, Mississippi. The scheme unraveled quickly at a local Wal-Mart, landing the duo in hot water with both local police and the U.S. Secret Service.
The Meridian Police Department first caught wind of the operation on July 17, 2017, when store employees flagged suspicious activity. De La Fuente and Boynak were attempting to make small purchases with what turned out to be remarkably poor forgeries. A search following their arrest revealed the scope of their operation: approximately $100,000 in fake and legitimate U.S. currency was recovered from their possession. Authorities suspect the pair intended to distribute the counterfeit bills throughout the region.
Both defendants quickly pled guilty to federal charges on October 25, 2017, hoping for leniency. That hope proved unfounded, as U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate handed down the 17-month sentences, sending a clear message that counterfeiting will not be tolerated. U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Michael Williams jointly announced the sentencing, highlighting the collaborative effort that brought the criminals to justice.
“This case demonstrates the Secret Service’s commitment to investigating and disrupting financial crimes, even those perpetrated by foreign nationals,” stated SAC Williams. “The introduction of counterfeit currency into the U.S. economy undermines public trust and harms legitimate businesses.” The investigation revealed the pair entered the United States on tourist visas, seemingly with the primary intention of running their illicit operation.
The sentences don’t end at prison walls. Following their release, both De La Fuente and Boynak will be deported back to Argentina. However, if they ever attempt to re-enter the United States, they will face an additional three years of supervised release – a long leash for two men who clearly disregarded the law. The case was skillfully prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dave Fulcher.
The Meridian Police Department’s quick response and the U.S. Secret Service’s expertise were crucial to dismantling this counterfeit ring. While $100,000 may seem like a small dent in the vast American economy, officials warn that even limited infusions of fake currency can destabilize local businesses and erode public confidence. This case serves as a stark reminder that even tourists aren’t exempt from the long arm of the law.
Related Federal Cases
- William D. Smith, Passing Counterfeit Currency, Erie PA, 2012 · Oregon
- Maui Burns: Biden Faces Heat Amidst Wildfire Response · Hawaii
- Robert L. Crites, Defrauded TRICARE, Batesville MS, 2023 · Washington
- Nicole Pennington, COVID Loan Scam, KY, 2023 · Kentucky
- Luciano Schipelliti, Crypto Investment Scam, Haverhill MA, 2021 · Mississippi
Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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