United States v. Michael Eugene Price and James Terrence Price

This case requires us to determine the meaning of the terms “falsely made” and “forged” in a criminal statute. James T. Price was indicted for the interstate transportation of falsely made or forged securities in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2314 , and Michael E. Price was charged with aiding and abetting the crime. 18 U.S.C. § 2 . Both were convicted after a bench trial, and they join in this appeal. We affirm.

The case was tried largely by stipulation, and the essential facts were not in serious dispute. Michael lived in Texas and James, his older brother, lived in California. They exploited their relation and the distance between them for a scheme that gave rise to the criminal charges. With his older brother’s cooperation, Michael had procured a driver’s license that bore Michael’s own picture but James’ name. At James’ request, Michael used the altered license to open a Texas bank account. Michael represented himself to be James Price and, as identification, showed the license to the bank employee in the new accounts department. Michael claimed to be the sole signatory. for the account, signed the signature card using James’ name, and did not represent he was acting for…