U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Rochester Port of Entry recently seized counterfeit designer items over a four-day period in April. The seized goods included handbags, wallets, clothing, watches, and shoes, all bearing fake trademarks.
After inspecting several shipments at the Port of Rochester, CBP officers determined the items were not authentic. The total Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) value of these items would have been approximately $198,100 if they were genuine.
Rochester Port Director Ronald Menz stated, "CBP plays a critical role in protecting businesses and consumers from fraudulent items." He praised the officers for their diligent work in preventing illegitimate merchandise from reaching American consumers.
CBP has the authority to detain, seize, forfeit, and destroy imported goods with infringing trademarks or copyrights registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office or Copyright Office. Other violations may include misclassification of merchandise and false country-of-origin markings.
Counterfeit goods pose threats to America's innovation economy and national security. Importing such merchandise is illegal, and consumers may face fines even if unintentional.
The public can report suspected counterfeit imports through CBP's E-Allegation tool. Additionally, CBP has launched an educational initiative called The Truth Behind Counterfeits to raise awareness about counterfeit dangers.
Follow CBP updates on X @CBPBuffalo and @DFOBuffalo. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a key law enforcement organization focused on border management to ensure national security and economic prosperity.
