Authorities in Garfield County have identified the man whose body was found in the Fravert area northwest of Rifle this month.
Jeremiah J. Michaelis, 24, of Rifle, was reported missing in early September, and his body was found Oct. 2, the county sheriff’s office said Tuesday.
Michaelis had been linked to a counterfeit operation this year.
Michaelis was identified through dental records and DNA, the office said.
“The coroner is waiting for the final autopsy to be completed to determine the probable cause of death,” the office said. “No foul play is suspected at this time.”
Michaelis was arrested in March on suspicion of making counterfeit $100 bills in a Grand Junction-area motel room, according to police.
Investigators said they found evidence of counterfeit money manufacturing, including computers, printers, chemicals, cutting devices and numerous copies of $100 bills in Michaelis’ possession during the arrest this year.
