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Fake NFL apparel seized

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ASSOCIATED PRESS
Federal authorities seize an estimated $40,000 worth of bogus NFL merchandise from Oahu vendors.
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U.S. IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT
More than $40,000 worth of counterfeit NFL-related merchandise was seized by federal agents Wednesday from Aloha Stadium and the International Market Place.

Federal agents and NFL representatives seized counterfeit NFL apparel valued at more than $40,000 from vendors at Aloha Stadium and the International Market Place, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Merchandise seized Wednesday included AFC All-Star, NFC All-Star and NFL game jerseys. ICE agents estimated the 135 items of apparel would have retailed for about $41,000 if genuine.

The raid targeted booths at the swap meet at Aloha Stadium, the site of Sunday’s Pro Bowl, and at the International Market Place in Waikiki.

No arrests were made, but agents said the investigation is ongoing.

"People need to realize that the sale and purchase of counterfeit goods is not a victimless crime," said Marjorie Thompson, acting special agent in charge of ICE’s homeland security investigations in Honolulu. "Commercial piracy and product counterfeiting undermine the U.S. economy, rob Americans of jobs, stifle American innovation and promote other types of crime."

ICE agents say consumers interested in buying genuine items should look for holographic NFL logos as an indication of official merchandise and should avoid items with incorrect spellings.

 

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