Hollister Police Chief Jeff Miller spoke to about 40 business
leaders Wednesday morning about working together to fight check
fraud.
There has been an increase in the number of check fraud crimes
in Hollister, he said, with more than 150 last year and losses
topping $16,000.
Hollister Police Chief Jeff Miller spoke to about 40 business leaders Wednesday morning about working together to fight check fraud.
There has been an increase in the number of check fraud crimes in Hollister, he said, with more than 150 last year and losses topping $16,000.
The Hollister Downtown Association (HDA) asked Miller to speak to its members at the quarterly breakfast meeting at The Vault Restaurant.
Miller suggested the HDA push for businesses to obtain thumb prints from customers using checks. He showed small print pads that cost $5. When customers use checks, their prints would be placed on it.
Without a thumb print as evidence, Miller said a business victimized by check fraud would have to remember the perpetrator’s identity and the date of the transaction.
“It’s a real tough thing the law asks you to do,” Miller said.
By using thumb print technology, the state Department of Justice can identify the lawbreaker if the person had been previously arrested, he said.
Plus, Miller said, businesses that use thumb printing get investigative priority over those that don’t.
The HDA may have the print pads available at its downtown office, according to President Jeff Welch, a local financial advisor.
“The businesses downtown, which are represented here, have a golden opportunity to get those for five bucks,” Welch said.
Miller also advocated that the HDA bring back a “phone tree” program used in the past. When a fraudulent check was reported, downtown businesses immediately notified each other.
As the Police Department’s leader, Miller said he believes in “full participation with the community.”
The chief also pointed out a checkbook theft was reported Tuesday. Businesses should watch out for checks with the name “Michael Smith” – the man whose checks were taken, he said.
Miller added that a rash of burglaries last week may have been solved, Miller said. A suspect – who may also be responsible for burglaries this past summer – was arrested.
Fore more information about the HDA or the sale of thumb print pads, call 636-8406 or go to 360 Sixth St.
