Bemidji police investigating area check scam

BEMIDJI—Bemidji Police are investigating a check scam in the region where persons are suspected of printing their own checks using false banking account information.

Police said the checks are printed with several different names and have been used to purchase large amounts of merchandise by several different persons in Bemidji, Bagley, Blackduck, Fosston and the surrounding areas, according to a release Wednesday from the department.

Businesses are strongly encouraged to verify the authenticity of any payment method, and to contact law enforcement promptly should anyone attempt to pay using suspicious checks.

Businesses and employees are reminded to check identification for anyone using any check and to compare the identification photo to the holder, the release said.

Any suspicious activity should be reported to local law enforcement immediately:

• Beltrami County Law Enforcement: (218)333-9111.

• Clearwater County Law Enforcement: (218)694-6226.

• Polk County Law Enforcement: (218)281-0431.

• Hubbard County Law Enforcement: (218)732-3331.