GRANT PARISH, La. (WNTZ) – A report of counterfeit money being used at a local business led to the arrest of an Alexandria man suspected of drug dealing, according to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the business after receiving a complaint that a man was attempting to pay with counterfeit currency. During questioning, the suspect allegedly admitted he earned his money by selling drugs and was often paid with counterfeit bills.

During the arrest, deputies found marijuana and nine bags of fentanyl, which the suspect attempted to hide in the back of the patrol vehicle, authorities said. He was also found in possession of nearly $2,000 in cash, which was seized by the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement task force.

The suspect, Alton Jones, 43, of Alexandria, was booked on multiple charges, including:

• Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute
• Possession of Marijuana
• Taking Contraband into a Penal Institution
• Monetary Instrument Abuse
• Obstruction of Justice

Jones remains in custody as the investigation continues.