Suspects accused of trying to cash phony checks at Centralia credit union
Centralia police last week arrested two suspects after they allegedly tried to cash fraudulent checks at a local Peak Credit Union branch.
According to police, the two men claimed they received the checks from their boss.
Bobby L. Hampton, 44, of Seattle, and Steven Singh, 38, of Tacoma, made preliminary appearances in Lewis County Superior Court on May 28 following their arrests.
They're both charged with one count each of first-degree attempted theft, first-degree identity theft and forgery.
A judge set bail at $10,000 cash or bond for both men.
According to a probable cause affidavit, on May 27, officers responded to the Peak Credit Union inside the Safeway grocery store on Harrison Avenue. Prior to their arrival, Hampton and Singh had allegedly presented two checks, each totaling $7,991.23, to staff.
A clerk reportedly "contacted the company listed on the check, DL Phillips Construction, and learned that the checks were fraudulent," the affidavit said.
The officers spoke with the suspects, who allegedly said they had received the checks from their boss. The boss, they said, had left the area.
Hampton and Singh reportedly told police they had each cashed another check for $7,000 at a different branch earlier in the day.
According to the affidavit, Hampton said his boss had promised to give him $100 if he cashed the checks, which were purportedly from DL Phillips Construction.
Hampton allegedly admitted to not knowing anyone from the company, police said.
"When asked if he knew the checks were counterfeit, Hampton initially said no, then said 'I guess so,'" the affidavit said.
According to the affidavit, Singh allegedly said he worked for his check, but "could not explain what work he did." He then "provided the wrong name" for the company.
The officers arrested both men. Police searched Singh and reportedly found four $100 bills and a cell phone.
Hampton and Singh are scheduled for arraignments on Thursday.
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This story was originally published June 2, 2026 at 11:21 AM.