CALGARY- He has been described as a “walking encyclopedia” when it comes to counterfeit money, and has been recognized across North America for his work. The fact that John Hornach volunteers his time is even more impressive.
12 years ago, the 86-year-old Calgary man created a business liaison program to teach companies how to recognize fake bills. He visits stores, letting employees see and feel examples of counterfeit cash.
“It’s a very good education for them, because I’ve had phone calls later in the day saying ‘Hey John, I’ve got a couple of twenties or a couple of fifties.’ So it does make a difference to them,” Hornach explains.
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Educating staff about fake bills saves owners both time and money.
“They can’t afford to send them to a seminar because for one thing they haven’t got enough staff. Secondly, if they send them in the evening they have to pay overtime, so it’s impractical for them to do that.”
Police say they don’t have the resources to train businesses themselves, so Hornach’s volunteer hours have made a huge difference.
“He is dedicated,” says Cst. Brad Norman. “If someone wants these seminars, he’s the first one to contact them and set up the dates, and he goes on his own time.”
Hornach was trained by the Calgary Police Service, and is supported by the Bank of Canada and RCMP. To contact him about a fraud seminar, e-mail: horn.cps.vo357@shaw.ca
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