A Bismarck, Illinois man, Jacob R. Kirkley, 48, has been sentenced to a total of five and a half years in prison for his involvement in counterfeiting activities and violating federal supervised release. The sentencing took place on May 2, 2025, following Kirkley's conviction by a federal jury last December for manufacturing, selling, and possessing counterfeit United States currency.
The court proceedings revealed that Kirkley sold counterfeit U.S. currency to an undercover officer from the Illinois State Police on multiple occasions between December 2023 and January 2024. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered additional counterfeit money and tools used in its production.
Kirkley's offenses occurred while he was on supervised release for a prior counterfeiting conviction from 2022. He had previously served 27 months in federal prison after being found with over $20,000 in counterfeit currency along with equipment for making fake money.
During the sentencing hearing, evidence was presented showing that Kirkley violated his supervised release not only through new counterfeiting activities but also by testing positive for methamphetamine use eight times. In recorded conversations with the undercover officer, Kirkley acknowledged his reputation as a counterfeiter and discussed techniques he learned during his first imprisonment.
U.S. District Judge Colin S. Bruce imposed a sentence exceeding the advisory guidelines due to Kirkley's repeated offenses shortly after his release from prison. The maximum statutory penalties for each count of conviction include up to twenty years of imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.
Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore emphasized the detrimental impact of counterfeiting on financial systems and business owners: “Counterfeiting offenses undermine the integrity and stability of our financial system.” Michael Kurzeja from the U.S. Secret Service highlighted their efforts against such crimes: “The Secret Service goes to extraordinary lengths to detect...and stop those who manufacture...counterfeit currency.”
Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly stressed ongoing cooperation among law enforcement agencies: “ISP will continue to work with our law enforcement partners at all levels.”
The investigation involved collaboration between the Springfield Division of the United States Secret Service, Vermilion County Metropolitan Enforcement Group, and Illinois State Police. Supervisory Assistant United States Attorney Eugene L. Miller represented the government at trial.