CHEBOYGAN, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Law enforcement officials are asking banks, local businesses and residents to be on the lookout for fraudulent savings bonds in northern Michigan.

Michigan State Police issued the warning Friday after two incidents at Citizens National Bank branches in Cheboygan and Emmet counties. Each involved a man attempting to exchange $20,000 in suspected fraudulent savings bonds for a cashier’s check.

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The first incident happened around noon Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the branch in Indian River. A man presented four $5,000 savings bonds and requested a cashier’s check. Bank staff issued the check before a supervisor became suspicious and alerted the bank’s main office in Cheboygan.

About an hour later, a different man attempted the same exchange at the Petoskey branch. Employees noticed the bonds appeared fake, and the man left the bank.

Bank officials believe the incidents may be connected.

Michigan State Police are urging caution if someone attempts to exchange large amounts of savings bonds or other financial documents for cash or cashier’s checks.

Anyone with information can contact the Michigan State Police Gaylord Post at 989-732-2778 and reference case number 73-3673-26.