A South Carolina inmate is facing additional charges after allegedly handing a judge counterfeit cash to pay his bond, and telling him to “keep the change,” authorities said.

According to the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office, 33-year-old Patrick Alexander, of Mississippi, was in court on a trespassing charge when a judge set his bond at $250. After being given access to his personal belongings, Alexander reportedly pulled out a “wad” of cash and handed the judge three $100 bills.

He then told the judge to keep the remaining amount.

The judge quickly noticed something was off. Authorities said the color of the bills appeared unusual, prompting closer inspection. Upon examining the money, the judge observed Chinese writing on the back of the bills.

A detention officer then tested the currency with a counterfeit detection pen, which confirmed the bills were fake. The judge immediately ordered the money to be held as evidence.

Instead of resolving a minor trespassing case, Alexander now faces a more serious charge. Officials said he has been charged under South Carolina law with forgery and possession of counterfeit currency.

Authorities later obtained and served a warrant at the Chesterfield County Detention Center, where Alexander remains in custody.

Under state law, forgery includes knowingly creating or using counterfeit instruments, a charge that carries significantly harsher penalties than the original trespassing offense.