The Check Fraud Division was created to work with the Eighth Judicial Circuit communities to curb the circulation of bad checks. In this endeavor the Division prosecutes misdemeanor worthless check cases and operates a worthless check diversion program. It also investigates and prepares large check cases for felony prosecution, transferring cases to the Felony Division to be charged as felony worthless checks, grand theft or scheme to defraud.

The Division assists victims in collecting the face value of the check and a victim service charge. The person who bounced the check is also charged a State fee, pursuant to Florida law, which is used to fund the check fraud operation. In addition, the Division staff conducts educational seminars for the business community and general public and works with law enforcement agencies investigating forged checks, counterfeit checks and theft of identity cases.

During the past 10 years (Jan. ’96 – Dec. ’06) the Check Fraud Division has processed approximately 100,550 worthless check complaints and collected over $6,419,200 in restitution for victims of check fraud.