Criminal Law/worthless check

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Expert: - 9/22/2007


Question
I received 2 worthless checks from the same person in Boca Raton, Florida.
Not being able to collect the money I decided to file a police report. However, to my surprise, the police has no interest in helping and would not even hear my case. Isn't writing a worthless check a crime? I just found out she has done the same thing to several people and continues doing it. How can I stop her.
Thank you!

Answer
It is obviously a surprise to you but for many years the police in most states have gotten out of the bad check business.  In other words they don't handle bad check cases unless there is forgery involved.  Why?  Because most people used the police like a collection agency.  In some states there is a special unit in the prosecutors office that handles these cases and in other states it is a civil matter.  I would suggest following the guidance of the police who most likely told you how bad checks are handled in your state.

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Jack Toomey

Expertise

Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. Only a judge could answer a question like that. I am also NOT a probation officer or parole officer so I cannot answer questions that relate to parole or probation. Also please keep in mind that every state has different laws. If you are planning to ask a question about a specific law or criminal charge that pertains to your state only it could be difficult to answer. I also cannot give you legal advice on what to do or what not to do in court. Retired police officer with 26 years experience. Worked in the patrol division as well as over 14 years in the detective bureau. Investigated a wide range of crime such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, fraud, missing persons, and other very sensitive crimes. I am available to answer your questions about criminal law and especially as it applies to police work. I taught at the police academy for several years and am especially knowledgeable about search and seizure. Any question about criminal law is welcome! Please don't ask me to do your homework or ask me questions that obviously come from your teachers or professors. I also do not do online interviews or surveys. Young people need to gain face to face interviewing skills. Local police officers usually are very agreeable to assist in these assignments.

Experience

I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience. I investigated almost every type of crime including murder, rape, theft, missing persons, fraud, and domestic abuse. I am very knowledgeable about search and seizure and taught at the police academy for several years on a variety of subjects. I can answer questions that a lot of attorneys cannot since they do not have "street experience".

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminolgy from the University of Maryland.

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