The agents seized merchandise bearing counterfeit collegiate and professional sports trademarks, as well as designer brands like Ray-Ban, Gucci, Rolex, Chanel, Louis Vitton, Polo, and Nike.
Similar sweeps at a Hickory flea mark and the N.C. State Fair resulted in the seizure of counterfeit merchandise valued at more than $280,000.
North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall warned that while counterfeit items may appear to be a bargain, they often carry hidden risks.
“When you buy counterfeits, you are getting poor quality products, many with health and safety issues like loose parts that can be a choking hazard, and you may be funding other dangerous ventures like organized crime, human trafficking, and terrorism,” Marshall said.
The Secretary of State’s office is responsible for enforcing laws that protect trademark holders and public safety.
