COLUMBIA, S.C. - Two people have been arrested
and more than $1.3 million in counterfeit merchandise has been
seized by officials following a sting operation in Lexington
County.
Bai Haung and Tian Feng, both of West Columbia, have been charged
with selling counterfeit goods at the Metro Flea Market on U.S.
Highway 1. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of one year in
jail and a $5,000 fine.
"State law is designed to protect the business investment of
trademark holders as well as protect consumers," said Lexington
County Sheriff James R. Metts. "We want to ensure that the goods
purchased by consumers meet the appropriate manufacturing standards
and constitute a genuine brand-name product."
The merchandise included sunglasses, shoes, handbags, hats,
clothing and watches with counterfeit marks from several well-known
companies and was found at a warehouse in Lexington.
The items will remain in storage until a judge orders them
destroyed.
