California man arrested in counterfeit currency case in western Arizona

A California man was arrested last week in connection with counterfeit currency being used in western Arizona, authorities said.

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office identified the man as 40-year-old Michael Shawn Wedge of Needles, CA.

“Through coordinated efforts with the Bullhead City Police Department, investigators were able to obtain surveillance footage identifying Wedge and the associated vehicle,” MCSO spokesperson Anita Mortensen told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

Wedge was taken into custody after authorities located his car. He had seven counterfeit $100 bills at the time of his arrest, Mortensen said.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department helped execute a search warrant at his home, where evidence of counterfeit currency production and a stolen motorcycle were found.

“The investigation resulted in the closure of six of our active cases, and he was then identified further as a suspect in at least two additional cases through the Bullhead City Police Department,” Mortensen said.

Wedge was booked into jail on three counts of forgery, two counts of fraud and driving on a suspended license.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims connected to the case in the Bullhead City and Mohave Valley area.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or has information regarding the case is asked to call 928-753-0753.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Kellen Shover contributed to this report.

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