CALIFORNIA, Md. (DC News Now) — Deputies in Southern Maryland are searching for a suspect after someone swindled local Girl Scout troops out of cash, handing them counterfeit bills as they sold cookies.
The Saint Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO) says it happened to two troops in California, Md. on Sunday.
“It’s outrageous, and frankly, shame on you. These are Girl Scouts, out trying to earn funds for trips or trying to earn badges. They’re enjoying an afternoon. They’re so incredibly trusting. And this is a terrible thing to do,” said ALisa Casas with the SMCSO.
Leaders from one of those troops say it’s been tough for the girls to process.
“Audrianna has just been going around saying, ‘I can’t believe someone was so mean to do this to Girl Scouts,'” said mother Elisabeth Randazzo.
Audrianna, 8, and 10-year-old Lena were selling cookies with their mothers Sunday when things took a turn.
“We needed some 1s, so I took four 20s and walked down to Giant to get some … It was the manager at Giant customer service who said two of these 20s are counterfeit. I was shocked and just surprised because I would never expect that to happen,” said mother and troop leader Lee Anne Machi.
Around the same time about a block away, another troop selling cookies also fell victim to fake bills. Troop 10005 is raising money for a trip to Europe.
For Girl Scouts Spencer Ewald, 11, and Molly Smith, 13, it’s not their first cookie season, but it is their first time dealing with something like this.
“I don’t know why someone would do that. Why would you make someone feel that way, just to get your money back? That’s not very fair,” said Ewald.
The girls are disappointed, but not discouraged.
“I think it’s made me want to sell more cookies,” said Smith. “We had this happen to us, and if it happens to you, you’ll be OK too. You can keep going.”
The Sheriff’s Office says it’s planning to hold a workshop for the Girl Scout troops this week to help them spot counterfeit cash in the future.
Anyone with any information about the incidents is asked to give the SMSCO a call.
