CHAMPLAIN, N.Y. – On March 19, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Champlain port of entry seized over $430,000 in counterfeit perfume.
Counterfeit perfume seized at Champlain Port of Entry
“This is an excellent seizure that protects the country’s economy and the consumer,” said Paul Mongillo, CBP port director for the Port of Champlain. “If you purchase counterfeit perfume, you don’t know what’s in it, or what chemicals were used to make it.”
“While counterfeiters are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their efforts, consumers can still act as the first line of defense in protecting themselves from substandard and often dangerous goods," said James Spero, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo. "We urge consumers to look for the tell-tale signs including prices that are too low and inferior quality in product materials. Saving a couple bucks is not worth risking your health."
On February 21, CBP officers encountered a tractor trailer hauling a commodity listed as perfume. Initial review of the shipment revealed suspicious labeling and packaging consistent with counterfeit goods. Further review by CBP import specialists confirmed the goods were counterfeit and violated trademarks from the following manufacturers: GUCCI, Calvin Klein, Miss Dior, Juicy Couture, Ralph Lauren, and Carolina Herrera.
The shipment was seized for bearing marks identical with or substantially indistinguishable from trademarks.
The seizure was a result of a joint effort with Immigration and Customs Enforcement HSI Special Agents.