18 U.S.C. § 479 – Uttering Counterfeit Foreign Obligations or Securities
This law makes it a federal crime to pass or use counterfeit foreign currency or securities.
This statute focuses on the circulation of counterfeit foreign money or financial instruments. It applies even if the accused did not personally create the counterfeit items.
As with U.S. currency cases, knowledge and intent are central to these charges.
What the law prohibits.
A person violates this statute if they knowingly and with intent to defraud:
- Pass, sell, or attempt to pass counterfeit foreign currency
- Possess counterfeit foreign obligations for use or distribution
- Bring counterfeit foreign securities into the United States
Penalties.
A conviction can result in a fine, up to 20 years in federal prison, or both.
If you’re accused of passing or possessing counterfeit foreign currency, call (314) 900-HELP or contact our criminal defense attorneys to talk through your defense.
