Idaho Falls Man Sentenced To Prison For Passing Counterfeit Currency At Local Businesses

BOISE - Duane Gene Harpe, 45, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, was sentenced today to serve 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for passing counterfeit currency at Treasure Valley Businesses, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced. United States District Judge Edward J. Lodge also ordered Harpe to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison. Harpe pleaded guilty to the charge on January 14, 2014.

According to court documents, in April of 2013, Harpe traveled from Idaho Falls to Boise with numerous counterfeit $20, $50, and $100 bills. Harpe admitted to traveling to Boise in order to purchase heroin with the counterfeit money. When he was unable to pass the counterfeit bills in exchange for heroin, he used approximately $250 of counterfeit money at several fast food restaurants and gas stations in Boise. Judge Lodge ordered the defendant to pay restitution in the amount of $250 to the establishments in which he was successful in passing counterfeit bills.

The case was investigated by the Boise Police Department and the Secret Service.