Premier League soccer fans were warned to look out for counterfeit merchandise and tickets for the July 20 preseason match between Manchester City and Club America at NGR Park in Houston.
Homeland Security Investigations Houston, the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Houston, Houston Police Department and Premier League organizers issued the warning in a July 18 Immigration and Customs Enforcement news release. Major sporting and entertainment events are often targeted by counterfeiters selling fake merchandise, apparel and tickets.
"Contrary to popular belief, counterfeiting is not a victimless crime," HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Mark Dawson said in the release. "It significantly impacts small businesses that do things the right way, harms consumers who unknowingly purchase substandard items, violates the rights of the trademark holder and, in some cases, the illicit proceeds are used to fund transnational criminal activity such as human trafficking and drug trafficking."
"CBP is vigilant in its efforts to intercept counterfeit and pirated goods aimed at lining the pockets of transnational criminal organizations while taking advantage of unsuspecting consumers and businesses," Houston CBP Field Operations Director Jud Murdock said in the news release. "We take every opportunity to join our law enforcement partners in seeking out and disrupting the flow of illegitimate goods especially ahead of a major sporting event like the upcoming Premiere League soccer match."
