Frank Bourassa, a man who thrives on challenges, found the ultimate Money Maker: counterfeiting US twenty-dollar bills. His intricate operation, fueled by meticulous research and a relentless drive, resulted in the production of $250 million in near-perfect fake currency. This is the story of his audacious scheme, his eventual capture, and his surprising redemption.
From Brake Pads to Bank Notes: The Making of a Money Maker
Bourassa’s journey to becoming a money maker began with entrepreneurial ventures in auto mechanics and brake part manufacturing. However, burnout and panic attacks led him down a different path. Seeking a lucrative yet challenging endeavor, he landed on counterfeiting. Driven by the allure of quick riches and the intellectual stimulation of a complex problem, Bourassa embarked on a meticulous research phase.
Mastering the Art of Counterfeiting: A Money Maker’s Blueprint
Bourassa’s first step was to identify the ideal currency: the US twenty-dollar bill. Its widespread use and moderate denomination made it the perfect target. He meticulously studied the security features of the bill, utilizing resources like the US Secret Service and Treasury Department websites.
He learned the intricacies of the printing process, from engraving to finishing, treating his research like rocket science. Understanding the importance of replicating the feel of genuine currency, he focused on sourcing the correct paper, ink, and printing equipment.
Sourcing Supplies: A Money Maker’s Global Quest
Bourassa acquired a Heidelberg four-color offset printing press, the size of a truck, and rented a discreet warehouse to house his operation. He sourced inks online and commissioned custom printing plates with etched designs. The biggest hurdle was the paper. To avoid suspicion, he targeted a Swiss paper mill, gradually introducing his specific requirements: a 75/25 cotton-linen blend, a 21 lb. thickness, a watermark of Andrew Jackson (sourced through a Kazakh contact), and a security strip.
The Paper Chase: A Money Maker’s High-Stakes Game
The arrival of the paper in Montreal initiated a complex retrieval operation. Employing multiple vehicles and drivers, Bourassa executed a carefully planned scheme to detect and evade potential surveillance. After days of observation and a staged traffic jam, the paper was transported to his warehouse, thoroughly inspected for tracking devices, and deemed safe.
Printing Millions: A Money Maker’s Triumph
With all components assembled, Bourassa and his crew commenced printing. They produced 12.5 million twenty-dollar bills, a staggering $250 million. The quality was exceptional, indistinguishable from genuine currency.
Distribution and Downfall: A Money Maker’s Risky Business
Bourassa planned to sell his counterfeit money for thirty cents on the dollar, targeting overseas drug traffickers. Initial sales were successful, but slow. Expanding his network proved to be his undoing. A new client, connected through an associate named Éric, was an undercover RCMP officer.
The Aftermath: From Money Maker to Protector
In 2012, Bourassa was arrested. Facing extradition to the US and lengthy prison sentences, he confessed to protect his girlfriend. However, a legal loophole regarding surveillance footage allowed him to avoid extradition. He ultimately struck a deal with the Crown, surrendering $200 million in counterfeit cash and his printing press in exchange for dropped charges. Today, Bourassa leverages his expertise in counterfeiting to run a legitimate business, offering anti-counterfeiting consulting services. His story serves as a testament to the allure and dangers of seeking the ultimate money maker.
The Missing Millions: A Money Maker’s Unsolved Mystery
One question remains: Where is the remaining $50 million? Bourassa claims ignorance, leaving a lingering mystery surrounding this remarkable tale of a money maker turned protector.
