A Casper man faces 16 forgery charges in connection with a suspected check-writing scheme that stretched over a six-day period earlier this month.

James Edward Friesen, 21, made his initial appearance in Natrona County Circuirt Court on Thursday before Judge Michael Patchen. His bond was set at $10,000.

Police say Friesen took the checks from a former roommate who was visiting family in Montana at the time. Friesen moved out of the South Oak Street residence shortly after his roommate returned home.

Friesen is accused of writing the checks to a number of Casper area stores, including Sportsman's Warehouse, where he allegedly purchased boots, a tent and a sleeping bag. Police believe Friesen forged a total of $675 in checks.

Friesen was initially interviewed by police detectives on Tuesday and denied taking the checks. While at the police station, he filled out a handwriting example. A police examiner matched the example to the handwriting on the checks.

Police also reviewed video surveillance from an Albertson's store and from Sportsman's Warehouse and determined it was Friesen in the footage.

Police arrested Friesen during a traffic stop Wednesday after finding a sleeping bag and tent from Sportsman's Warehouse in the van in which he was riding.

The 21-year-old remained in the Natrona County Detention Center on Thursday evening. If convicted on all counts, he faces up to 160 years in prison.

Reach crime reporter William Browning at (307) 266-0534 or at william.browning@trib.com.