DATE/TIME: October 8, 2026, at about 02:45 PM
INCIDENT: Joint Investigation Leads to Discovery of Counterfeit Currency Manufacturing Equipment and Stolen Property
LOCATION: 700 Block of Downey Avenue, Needles, CA
SUSPECT 1: Michael Wedge, 40-years-old, Resident of Needles, Ca SUSPECT 2: Jessica Kanenbley, 35-years-old, Resident of Needles, Ca
VICTIM(S): State of California
SUMMARY: On Thursday, October 8, 2026, deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's Colorado River Station, in collaboration with the Mohave County Sheriff's Office, served a search warrant at a residence in the 700 block of Downey Avenue in Needles, California, as part of an ongoing counterfeit currency investigation.
The investigation originated in Mohave County, Arizona, after deputies received information regarding counterfeit United States currency being used throughout the Mohave County area. During the investigation, Mohave County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested Michael Wedge. Based on information obtained during the investigation, deputies from the Colorado River Station obtained and served a search warrant at Wedge's residence.
During the search, deputies located and seized numerous items believed to be associated with the manufacturing of counterfeit United States currency. Additionally, deputies recovered a stolen Yamaha R1 motorcycle, other stolen property, suspected narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.
The investigation remains ongoing as investigators work to determine the extent of the suspected counterfeiting operation, identify additional victims, and determine whether the recovered property is connected to other criminal activity. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department and Mohave County Sheriff's Office continue to collaborate on this investigation.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Deputy E. Olmos of the Colorado River Station at (760) 326-9200. Those wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline or text "REPORT" to (844) 909-3006. Individuals may also leave information online using the We-Tip website at: https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites.
For press releases, news, and information, follow the Colorado River Station on Facebook and/or Instagram at SBCSDColoradoRiverStation or X @CORiverStation.
Refer: Deputy E. Olmos
Station: Colorado River Station / Needles Police Department
Phone No. 760-326-9200
Case No. 212600878
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
