CINCINNATI—On August 14, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati seized 7,500 counterfeit phone cases and 2,040 counterfeit phone fronts from three shipments at local cargo facilities. The fake items came from China and would have been worth a total of $374,020 had they been genuine.
The phone cases and fronts were labeled as Apple and Samsung, with black tape placed over the brand name in an attempt to circumvent a complete inspection. Additionally, the shipments were manifested as “Plastic LCD” with listed values below $500 per shipment.
The shipments were destined to individuals in El Salvador and Laredo, Texas.
“Counterfeit goods can significantly impact consumer health and safety, and can damage legitimate trade,” said Cincinnati Port Director Richard Gillespie. “Our officers work hard to protect the U.S. economy and keep our citizens safe.”
CBP has established an educational initiative to raise consumer awareness about the consequences and dangers that are often associated with the purchase of counterfeit and pirated goods. Information about the Truth Behind Counterfeits public awareness campaign can be found at https://www.cbp.gov/FakeGoodsRealDangers.
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.