$100M worth of merchandise seized, 11 indicted in West Coast counterfeit goods bust

11 indicted in large West Coast fake goods bust

SAN FRANCISCO — Federal authorities say they’ve seized $100 million worth of counterfeit goods and arrested 10 people in raids of shops at San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf.

The merchandise was illegally imported from China and includes bags, sunglasses and other items labeled with more than 70 brand names such as Gucci, Prada and Nike.

U.S. Attorney Joseph Russoniello said Tuesday that a total of 11 people were indicted, including two illegal immigrants. He says they are owners or employees of eight stores targeted in the raids.

The indictment was filed in federal court on July 22 and unsealed Monday. It includes charges of conspiracy, smuggling and trafficking in counterfeit goods.

If convicted, the defendants could face prison terms of up to 20 years.