January 29, 2004

By: Kim Park
Website: http://www.1st-in-sunglasses.com

Counterfeiters Arrested At Lexington Flea Market

Secretary of State Jim Miles announced today that nine arrests were made Saturday in a raid by investigators of the Secretary of State’s Office at the Barnyard Flea Market , located at 4414 Augusta Road in Lexington, and The US # 1 Metro Flea Market, located at 3500 Augusta Road in West Columbia. Each of the defendants has been charged with trafficking in counterfeit goods. Two of the defendants listed local addresses; the others are residents of New York State. A violation of this statute holds a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $5,000.00 fine. The Lexington County Sheriff's office assisted with the investigation.

The total cash value of merchandise seized was $860,238.00. The types of merchandise seized were various articles of clothing, watches, pocketbooks and sunglasses bearing such marks as Polo, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Kate Spade, Gucci, Sean John, Fubu, Fat Albert, Calvin Klein, and Phat Farm.

When counterfeiters sell fake goods, they cheat the customer, who gets a product of inferior quality, said Miles. They also cheat the legitimate manufacturer and distributor by weakening the value of the brand name. Most importantly, they cheat Americans out of good jobs, provided by legitimate manufacturers, like we have here in South Carolina.

About The Author:

Kim Park is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-sunglasses.com.  Helping you find great deals on discount designer sunglasses.