Two people arrested in alleged counterfeiting operation

Two suspects are arrested, accused of running a counterfeit operation in Arroyo Grande.

On Dec. 5th police were called to a Walmart because someone was trying to use a counterfeit $100 bill.

When they arrived the suspect was gone, but through surveillance video, they were able to identify the suspect as Michael Anthony Hooper, according to police.

On Dec. 19th officers located the suspect and arrested him for an outstanding felony warrant.

A search of his home revealed more counterfeit money, along with equipment and supplies used to create the fake currency.

The Arroyo Grande Police Department together with the U.S. Secret Service are working on this investigation.

Both Michael Hooper and Claudia Patricia Ritter were arrested and booked at the San Luis Obispo County Jail on numerous charges.