Man sentenced to one year in prison for spending counterfeit dollars

June 2, 2025 – Lefkosia, Northern Cyprus: Bilal Çınar has been sentenced to one year in prison by the Lefkosia High Criminal Court for possessing and circulating counterfeit U.S. currency. 

The court found that on February 24, 2025, Çınar attempted to exchange two counterfeit $100 bills at a currency exchange office in Lefkosia. Further investigation by the Crime Prevention Department revealed an additional 26 counterfeit $100 bills, totaling $2,600, in his possession.

Delivering the judgement, the judge emphasized the severity of the offense, noting that the circulation of counterfeit currency undermines economic stability and public trust. She stated that such crimes are serious and carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment under the Penal Code.

In determining the sentence, the court considered mitigating factors, including Çınar's age (26), lack of prior criminal record, his admission of guilt, and his role as the primary caregiver for his elderly and ill mother. These factors contributed to the decision to impose a one-year prison sentence.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges posed by financial crimes and the judiciary's commitment to upholding the integrity of the financial system.