A New Orleans resident has been indicted for allegedly participating in a scheme to manufacture and use counterfeit $100 bills. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Amanda Cangelosi, 39, was indicted on August 22, 2025, for conspiracy to make and pass counterfeit United States currency and for passing counterfeit one hundred dollar bills.
The indictment alleges that Cangelosi worked with others to create fake $100 bills by altering genuine $1 bills. The group then used these counterfeit notes to pay for goods and services, including using three of the fake $100 bills at a hotel in Metairie, Louisiana.
If convicted of conspiracy, Cangelosi could face up to five years in prison. A conviction for passing counterfeit currency carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years. In addition, she faces the possibility of fines totaling up to $500,000, up to three years of supervised release, a mandatory $200 special assessment fee, and possible restitution payments.
“Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Simpson acknowledged the efforts of both the United States Secret Service and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright from the Financial Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
