Traffic Stop and diligent follow-up leads to Arrests for Drugs, Forgery, and Counterfeiting of US Currency

Cornville AZ (February 12, 2015) – On February 4, 2015, David Bukowski, age 25 and originally from Cornville, was arrested for charges including an outstanding arrest warrant, several counts of Forgery, Possession of a Forged Instrument, Assuming a False Identity, and Possession of Marijuana. He remains in-custody in Camp Verde on an $18,000 bond. The following day, February 5, 2015, Bukowski’s mother, Ronda Engel, age 50 from Cornville, was arrested for charges including Possession of Deadly Weapon during a Felony and Possession of Marijuana. She has since been released on a $1000 bond. Also arrested on the 5^th was Dennis Berry, age 49, from Chino Valley. He was charged with Misconduct involving Weapons and Possession of Marijuana and remains in-custody on a $1000 bond.

BACKGROUND – During the evening of February 4, 2015, a YCSO deputy stopped a black Ford Mustang displaying expired registration. The driver, (later identified as David Bukowski) provided a Colorado driver’s license with the name “Bill Benjamin.” A check of the license number revealed no record and the deputy determined the license was likely a fake. When challenged, Bukowski eventually admitted his true name which he did not want to disclose originally because of a warrant. The deputy also found marijuana in his possession. Additional fake identifications were located in his vehicle along with an empty firearm box. Bukowski later admitted using an internet program to create fake ID’s while staying at a local resort with his mom, Ronda Engel, and her boyfriend, Dennis Berry.

The next day, deputies located 2 adjoining rooms at the Highland Resorts in Cornville where Bukowski previously indicated he was creating fake IDs. Engel and Berry were both present and detained. 2 handguns were discovered along with various drugs. The rooms were secured and a search warrant was obtained by YCSO detectives. During the subsequent search, detectives located a printer, computer and associated equipment used to create fake IDs. Detectives also found evidence involving the production of counterfeit US $100 bills connected to David Bukowski, along with receipts from area Cottonwood business showing the purchase of items with $100 bills. Numerous counterfeit bills in various stages of production were seized. Detectives also recovered quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, and various prescription medications.

In later days, detectives have verified the use of counterfeit bills in at least 4 Cottonwood area businesses. 

The investigation remains active as the US Secret Service is also assisting with follow-up regarding the production and passing of counterfeit US Currency related to these suspects.

Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260 or the YCSO website: www.ycsoaz.gov