Becker County, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) – A Pelican Rapids man has been charged with felony theft-by-swindle after allegedly tricking a co-worker into cashing a fake $1,480 check, then disappearing with the money.
According to a complaint filed in Becker County District Court, between May 9 and May 12, 2025, Anthony Lee Stands (DOB: 05/30/1993) approached a co-worker and asked him to cash a check on his behalf, claiming he had recently sold a truck but lacked the paperwork needed to open a bank account.
Stands allegedly had a check written in the victim’s name for $1,480, which the victim deposited at Bell Bank in Detroit Lakes on May 9. Believing the check had cleared, the victim withdrew the full amount the next day and handed it to Stands on May 11, receiving $100 in return for the favor.
However, the victim was notified by the bank the following day that the check was dishonored and that his account was now overdrawn. When the victim contacted Stands, text messages showed that Stands promised to return the money, but never did.
Stands is now charged with:
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Count I: Theft by Swindle (Felony) – Value over $1,000
If convicted, he faces up to 5 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.
A summons has been issued for his upcoming court appearance.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.