The Columbia Police Department arrested a 19-year-old Columbia woman and shut down a check fraud operation on Jan. 10. The suspect, Jantania Elia Green, was arrested by the department’s Major Crimes Bureau, which conducted a “thorough investigation into the fraudulent activities,” according to a press release from the CPD.
“According to the authorities, Ms. Green is accused of playing a pivotal role in a scam involving the creation of counterfeit checks. Allegations suggest she supplied her payroll checks from an unsuspecting Columbia business, which were then replicated using the company's account information. These forged checks were subsequently cashed, siphoning funds from the business's account,” the press release stated.
Green was charged with a pair of felonies including wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and her total bond was set at $10,000 — $5,000 for each charge. CPD Det. Micheal Turner cautions all Columbia businesses to remain vigilant to avoid similar crimes being committed against them.
“The arrest of Ms. Green marks a significant milestone in the fight against financial fraud in Columbia, with the CPD reaffirming their commitment to protecting local businesses from such deceptive practices. The investigation by the Major Crimes Bureau is ongoing, as they continue to unravel the extent of the check fraud operation.
“Businesses and individuals are reminded to keep a close eye on their financial dealings and to adopt preventative measures against fraud. The Columbia Police Department remains a resource for those seeking advice or needing to report potential fraud.
For more information on this case or to report suspicious activity, please contact the Columbia Police Department at 601-736-8225,” according to the press release.
