Palos Park, Ill. – A family was allegedly paid $2,000 in counterfeit cash during a Facebook Marketplace watch sale Sunday night, prompting a police investigation and public warning.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, investigators are working with the family after two watches valued at $1,000 each were sold through Facebook Marketplace.
Police said a man communicating with the seller agreed to pay $2,000 in cash and met the victim Sunday night to complete the transaction. Authorities said the suspect handed over a large wad of cash folded in half before taking possession of the watches.
The victim initially believed the money appeared legitimate. However, upon closer inspection, police said each bill allegedly carried the same serial number — a common indicator of counterfeit currency.
Investigators have not released a suspect description and said the case remains under investigation.
Police are reminding residents conducting online marketplace sales to meet in designated safe exchange zones and carefully inspect cash before completing transactions.
The incident may serve as a caution for local students and young sellers who frequently use online marketplaces for high-value items.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Palos Park Police Department.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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