CBP Seizes $18.1 Million in Fake Jewelry and Watches

Shoppers beware . . . Fake jewelry and watches keep coming to the United States, so if it’s a deal, make sure it’s real.

Image courtesy: cbp.com

Last week the US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) seized 962 pieces of counterfeit jewelry and watches which, if authentic, would have been worth over $18 million. The fake goods arrived in Louisville, Kentucky in four shipments from China and Hong Kong, headed to residences in Arizona, Virginia, Florida, and New York.

Among the seized goods were 440 knockoff Rolex watches; 459 bracelets with logos of Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Chanel, and Van Cleef & Arpels (VCA); and 43 pairs of earrings and 20 necklaces branded VCA and Cartier.

In providing this information, CBP also posts a warning about the dangers of counterfeit items; and its work to keep them out of the country. Per LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director, Field Operations, CBP Chicago Field office:

“Counterfeit items defraud both the consumer and legitimate businesses. Our officers are committed to diligently working to protect our economy and the American consumer . . . Customs and Border Protection urges you to protect your families by purchasing authentic consumer products from reputable retailers.”

And remember, it’s not just shipments of fake goods that are subject to seizure by the CBP. If you’re found traveling with counterfeits – whether purchased here or abroad – the CBP has the authority to take them.