LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Federal officers intercepted a large shipment of counterfeit designer jewelry valued at more than $9 million at a facility in Louisville earlier this month.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the seizure took place on April 3 at a local express consignment facility. Officers identified two suspicious shipments arriving from Hong Kong that were destined for a residence in New York.
The packages contained 1,588 items, including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings. Each item displayed branding from luxury labels such as Cartier, Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co..
Officers suspected the items were counterfeit and sent them for expert review. Trade specialists later confirmed the goods were fake, making them subject to seizure under federal law.
Officials say the case highlights ongoing efforts to combat counterfeit goods entering the U.S. market.
“Illicit trade in counterfeit goods can be found in all product lines and industries, representing a significant threat to America’s innovation economy, the competitiveness of our businesses, the livelihoods of U.S. workers and, in some cases, national security and the health and safety of consumers,” said Louisville Port Director Phil Onken.
Authorities also warned that the growth of online shopping has made it easier for counterfeit products to reach consumers, costing billions of dollars annually and posing potential risks to buyers.
CBP encourages consumers to purchase products only from trusted and reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit items.
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