New Bedford Man Arrested for Passing Phony $50 Bills

NEW BEDFORD — A 22-year-old man was arrested Tuesday for passing three counterfeit $50 bills at a café, as well as possessing a knife.

James Richard Rossi, 22, of 82 Phillips Ave., Apt. 2W, New Bedford, was charged with passing a counterfeit note and carrying a weapon.

Police responded Tuesday evening to Tilia’s Café at 1623 Acushnet Avenue after a bartender reported that a customer had paid for drinks early that morning with two $50 bills. That afternoon, he used a third $50 bill to buy a single beer, then took the change and left. At that time, the bartender took a close look at the bills and determined they were counterfeit.

Police apprehended Rossi, who was found in possession of a large folding knife.

The bills were cut unevenly and no watermark was present.

The arrest was made at 6:59 p.m.