On Feb. 3, the Sam Houston State University chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists reported to the University Police Department that checks had been stolen from the organization used to write fraudulent checks across Huntsville.
The checks were used at the local Kroger, Brookshire Brothers, H.E.B, and an out-of-town Safeway. Officials within the NABJ are still unsure how and from where the checks were taken. The total amount written using the fraudulent checks amounted to $1,120.39.
“The police department will be looking at this case as a forgery because the suspects did forge the checks,” UPD Deputy Chief James Fitch, said.
Forgery, in the state of Texas, is considered a state jail felony and according to Title 7 Chapter 32 Section 32.21 of the Texas Penal Code, it is punishible by jail time of not more than two years or less than 180 days. In addition to confinement, an individual found guilty of a state jail felony may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000.
The investigation is still ongoing. Students with information about the case should contact the UPD at 936-294-1794.