Thailand – — A 66-year-old American national was arrested by Pattaya police after allegedly attempting to exchange counterfeit U.S. currency at a booth along Jomtien Beach. The suspect, identified as Mr. Stookey, was detained following a staff report from TT Currency Exchange, who noticed that the banknotes he presented appeared suspicious.
According to police reports, Mr. Stookey attempted to exchange ten $100 bills, which staff flagged as counterfeit due to the visible marking: “For Motion Picture Use Only.” These notes are commonly used as props in films and are not legal tender. Despite being confronted by staff, Mr. Stookey allegedly insisted on proceeding with the exchange and became agitated when denied service.
A subsequent search by Pattaya police uncovered 11 more fake $100 notes in his possession, bringing the total number of counterfeit bills to 21. Officers charged Mr. Stookey with possession and attempted use of counterfeit U.S. currency, stating that he was fully aware the bills were not real.
Authorities confirmed that Mr. Stookey has been traveling in and out of Thailand for the past ten years and currently resides in the Pratumnak Hill area with his Thai wife, originally from the northeastern Isaan region.
Mr. Stookey has not issued any public statement or responded to media inquiries. He remains in police custody pending legal proceedings.
Thai officials have reiterated the importance of public vigilance, especially in tourism hubs like Pattaya, where incidents involving counterfeit money have surfaced periodically. “Financial crimes threaten trust in the economy,” said a Pattaya police spokesperson. “We advise all businesses and tourists to inspect high-denomination notes carefully and report any suspicious activity.”
This case adds to growing efforts by Thai authorities to clamp down on economic offenses, particularly those involving foreign nationals misusing the country’s financial systems.
