$30K in Counterfeit Bills, Alleged Speeding Driver High on Meth: CHP Makes Major Bust in Cabazon

CABAZON, CA – A routine traffic stop for a speeding violation in the San Gorgonio Pass ended in the arrest of a prolific counterfeiter wanted by several law enforcement agencies, California Highway Patrol officials said.

According to Sgt. Adrian Horta, it all started around 8 p.m. Sunday night when a CHP officer pulled over a Toyota Camry for speeding on Interstate 10 eastbound near Cabazon.

The man behind the wheel didn't have ID on him – and initially provided fake names – but was ultimately identified as a 33-year-old from Desert Hot Springs, Matthew Burress, the sergeant said. Officers suspect he was driving under the influence of methamphetamine when he was contacted. They also apparently soon discovered several more links to alleged illegal activities.

"Located within the Toyota was over $30,000 in high quality counterfeit bills," Horta said in a news release. "Burress was also in possession of equipment and implements to counterfeit the money."

That funny money was allegedly being spent in the region.

"Through receipts, it was determined Burress had been passing and exchanging the currency throughout the Pass Area," Horta said.

CHP officials reached out to federal officials regarding the suspect and learned he is accused of committing similar currency crimes in Orange County, Nevada and Arizona, according to the sergeant.

"Further investigation, revealed Burress was a wanted person by the United States Marshals Service for similar federal crimes," he said. "On [Tuesday] the United States Marshals Service took custody of Burress and the investigation is ongoing."

Riverside County jail records indicate the man was being held at the Banning jail on suspicion of several charges related to drugs, burglary and DUI.

Images courtesy: CHP