Milford, Michigan — A man from Inkster, identified as 21-year-old Javon Lavell Smith, is now facing serious felony charges after investigators say he used counterfeit $100 bills to pay for pizza orders at restaurants across Milford and Highland Township.
Smith was taken into custody earlier this week by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Team, who tracked him down at his residence in Inkster following multiple complaints from local businesses.
According to officials, the case has become an example of how quickly routine food orders can turn into active criminal investigations when counterfeit money is involved.
How the Counterfeit Pizza Orders Unfolded
Investigators say the events unfolded on October 7, when Smith allegedly placed separate pizza orders from restaurants located in both Milford and Highland Township.
Instead of paying legitimately, police claim he handed over fake $100 bills, received real cash back as change — and then never returned to collect the food he ordered, according to Click2Detroit.
This tactic is a common way counterfeiters attempt to convert fake currency into real money: placing low-value orders, paying with high-denomination bills, and pocketing the legitimate change.
Restaurant workers reportedly became suspicious shortly after the transactions, prompting them to contact authorities. When deputies examined the bills, they determined the money was counterfeit, setting the investigation in motion.
Felony Charges Filed Against Smith
Smith is being charged with uttering and publishing counterfeit bills or notes, a felony under Michigan law.
This charge carries potentially severe penalties, including fines and possible prison time, depending on the circumstances and prior history.
Officials with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that even small-scale counterfeit operations can cause financial damage to local businesses, many of whom are already operating on tight margins.
Court Proceedings Already Underway
The suspect was formally arraigned on Tuesday, November 11, in Novi, where a judge granted him release on a personal bond, meaning he did not have to post money to leave custody.
Court documents show that Smith is next scheduled to appear for a probable cause conference on November 19, a hearing that will determine whether enough evidence exists to send the case to trial.
Local authorities are continuing to review whether the counterfeit bills used in this case may be linked to other incidents in the region. As of now, Smith remains the sole individual charged in connection with the scheme.
Impact on Local Restaurants
Both Milford and Highland Township restaurant owners expressed frustration after learning the transactions involved fake cash. Not only were they left with unpaid orders, but they also suffered financial losses from giving out legitimate change during the fraudulent exchanges.
Law enforcement agencies are urging businesses to remain vigilant, especially when accepting high-denomination bills, and to immediately report any suspicious currency.
Do you think penalties for passing counterfeit money should be stricter — or are current laws enough?
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