Three Maryland men have been taken into police custody for allegedly selling counterfeit merchandise. A raid conducted by the Delaware State Police reportedly discovered more than 1,200 counterfeit items that the police state were being sold by the three men. The items included counterfeit items from brands such as Coach, Gucci and Louis Vutton. There were also replica sports jerseys, cash and a small amount of marijuana reportedly found at the property by the police. The marijuana has led to a drug charge for the possession of marijuana.
Two of the men have been reportedly charged with 22 separate counts of misdemeanors and felonies. These charges include second-degree conspiracy, trademark counterfeiting, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The counterfeit items were sold from the property of a wireless business.
The counterfeit items that the police seized were reportedly valued at over $100,000. The police are still investigating the case and all three men have been released on bond. The bond of the two men charged with counterfeiting and drug charges were released on a $14,500 unsecured bond. The third man, who did not face drug charges, was released on a $2,000 bond.
Two of the men are facing charges of counterfeiting, conspiracy and marijuana possession while the third man is only facing charges of counterfeiting and conspiracy. None of the men will face charges of drug distribution because the amount of marijuana was under 45 grams but they are still being charged with possession and the possession of paraphernalia. Criminal defense attorneys may be able to help these men by entering into a plea deal that can reduce their sentencing. They may also be able to construct a solid defense to help the men defend themselves against the 22 separate charges.
Source: 4 NBC Washington, “3 Md. Men Arrested for Selling Counterfeit Merchandise“, June 01, 2013