Second Case Dismissed in Hojo Currency Plate Prosecution

The U.S. Attorneys Office, Eastern District of Michigan, has dismissed charges in the matter of an allegedly stolen Korean currency plate.

Prosecutors closed their criminal case against Midwest Auction Galleries owner James Amato, explaining in a pleading filed earlier this month in federal district court, "The reason for dismissal is: Defendant, JAMES CARL AMATO, has successfully completed pre-trial diversion."

The U.S. Attorney's office dismissed a companion case against co-defendant Wong Young Youn in May.

Officials originally arrested the pair for possessing and selling a Hojo currency plate dating to 1893. Prosecutors said it was stolen from Korea and was one of only three such plates in existence. Details of the investigation may be found here.

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