MOUNT VERNON — Mt. Vernon police have arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with identity theft and forgery after they responded to a report from a local bank regarding a fraudulent check.

According to MVPD, Community First Bank reported the fraudulent check on July 18. An investigation into the matter resulted in detectives determining Cortez M. Johnson, of Mt. Vernon, was a suspect in five additional fraudulent check offenses in Mt Vernon.

On Friday, July 21st, 2023 detectives were conducting surveillance on a residence Johnson was known to frequent. While doing so, Johnson was observed leaving the residence. Detectives were able to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle and take Johnson into custody.

At the time of his arrest, Johnson was reportedly found to be in possession of uncashed fraudulent checks and blank check paper. Detectives also located a large sum of cash in the vehicle.

He was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on charges of Identity Theft, Theft Over $10,000, Forgery, and Theft Between $500 – $10,000.

Johnson is currently on parole from the Illinois Department of Corrections. Illinois Parole has been notified of these charges and will determine if a violation warrant will be issued.

Police say this is an ongoing criminal investigation with additional charges against Johnson and others involved in these offenses pending.