Men Busted With Fake $100 Bills in Hamden

Two men have been arrested in connection with the passing of a counterfeit $100 bill at the Walgreen’s at 1191 Dixwell Ave., according to Hamden Police.

On March 14, police responded to a report of suspicious activity. The responding officers were told that an individual was attempting to pass a counterfeit $100 bill. 

When Officer Robert O’Neill arrived at the store, he saw an individual, who was later identified as James Luna, “sprinting” in the parking lot. Luna subsequently entered a vehicle, which was operated by Jorge Hidalgo, and attempted to flee from the area. O’Neill, along with Officer Gabe Garcia, were able to detain them. 

Investigation revealed that Luna approached the cash register with inexpensive items and a counterfeit $100 bill. The Walgreens staff notified Hamden Police and when Luna saw a Hamden Police vehicle arrive, he reportedly fled the store. 

Further investigation revealed that earlier in the day, Hidalgo entered Walgreens and received $90 in change from a counterfeit $100 bill. 

A search of Hidalgo’s vehicle led to the discovery and seizure of an envelope, which contained nearly $2,000 in cash. The United States Secret Service was contacted. 

Hamden Police arrested Luna, 28, of Staten Island, NY, on charges of first-degree forgery, conspiracy to commit sixth-degree larceny and interfering with a Police Officer. 

Police also arrested Hidalgo, 32, of 657 E. Main St., Meriden, on charges of first-degree forgery, conspiracy to commit first-degree forgery, sixth-degree larceny, conspiracy to commit sixth-degree larceny and interfering with a police officer. 

Neither suspect was able to post $100,000 bond and are scheduled to appear March 26 in state Superior Court in Meriden.