Three indicted in counterfeit check scheme

Accused of defrauding U., CHOP Three Philadelphia men were indicted by a federal grand jury yesterday for distributing counterfeit University and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia checks worth $155,000. Two of the men succeeded in getting cash and goods valued at over $35,000, according to the indictment. David Davis, of the 1300 block of South Lindenwood Street, and Demetrius White, of the 5500 block of Regent Street, were indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute counterfeit checks and six counts of distribution of counterfeit checks. Another man, Richard Walker, of the 8500 block of Marsden Street, is charged with one count of distribution of counterfeit checks. The indictment, announced by U.S. Attorney Michael Rotko, alleges that Davis and White obtained authentic checks from CHOP and the University in April 1992. They then allegedly placed orders with a printing company in New Jersey for 1,000 CHOP checks and 250 University checks, using the authentic checks as samples. The indictment alleges that Davis and White then conspired with others, including Walker, to cash the counterfeit checks at various check cashing agencies and to purchase goods at several stores including Sears and Advanced Technology computers. The scheme lasted from April 10, 1992 until March 26, 1993, according to the indictment. Davis and White attempted to cash checks totaling over $120,000 and succeeded in getting cash and goods valued at over $35,000, a U.S. Justice Department release states. Walker attempted to cash four checks with a total value of over $35,000. If proven guilty, Davis and White both face up to 65 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,750,000. Walker faces a maximum sentence of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000. The men were arrested following a Federal Bureau of Investigation operation and will be prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Robert Zauzmer.

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