FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 16, 2025

 

West Earl Township Police Arrest Joseph Dejesus (28 YOA Male from Lenhartsville) for Fraud and Drug Charges

 

On January 16, 2025, at approximately 12:35 PM, West Earl Township Police responded to a report of fraud at a residence on Dogwood Drive. Officers were dispatched after a victim reported being paid with counterfeit currency during a private sale.

 

The victim informed police that she had agreed to sell to Joseph Dejesus, a Louis Vuitton bag, a PlayStation 4 with controllers, an iPhone, and clothing for $1,400. Dejesus allegedly paid the victim with counterfeit $50 bills labeled "MOTION PICTURE PURPOSES." The victim immediately recognized the money was fake, returned to her vehicle, and called the police.

 

Officers made contact with Dejesus at the residence. He initially denied the allegations and claimed the counterfeit money did not come from him. After an on-scene investigation, Dejesus was placed under arrest. A search of his belongings, incident to arrest, revealed a small amount of marijuana.

 

Dejesus was transported to the police headquarters, where he was processed and charged by Officer Jacob Waltz with the following offenses:

 

Theft by Deception

Possession of a Small Amount of Marijuana

 

He was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Jonathan Heise, who set bail at $5,000. Dejesus was remanded to Lancaster County Prison. During the intake process at the prison, additional counterfeit bills were discovered concealed on his person.

 

The investigation remains ongoing, and the West Earl Township Police Department urges the public to exercise caution during private sales.

 

The public and media are reminded that all criminal charges are allegations, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.