Counterfeit Handbags and Terrorism

Recently, criminal networks have been targeting handbags in their trade here in the United States. The most common type of counterfeit handbag includes a strap that is similar to those found on designer handbags and a lower price point. Most counterfeits are made in China and then sold at flea markets or auction houses to buyers who aren’t aware that they are buying stolen goods.

Counterfeiters have been known to sell donated high-end clothing and other merchandise during these transactions, though the source of this booty is often unclear. With the worldwide supply chain for fashion being so convoluted, it falls upon consumers to educate themselves about what goes into their purchases.

The United States Secret Service is a law enforcement entity focusing on counterfeiting and financial crimes. To combat counterfeit merchandise, the Secret Service is working with major retailers to cut off distribution channels and locate counterfeiters. In addition, the government will soon begin collecting data from China about imports of certain goods that could indicate potential counterfeiting operations.

China has become a hub for counterfeiting, but it is also home to designer companies such as Gucci and Prada who depend upon their products being authentic in order to maintain their image. With so many consumers falling victim to the inferior quality of fake merchandise, these companies are concerned that the public will no longer have faith in them or their products.

Serious crimes regarding counterfeit goods are becoming more prevalent in the United States and around the world. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud or theft, please call our office at 409-692-3411 to speak with one of our lawyers. Coordinating a fraud case can often be complex, and 24 hours a day we can serve as your advocate in making sure that your rights are protected.

Consumer Fraud is a serious crime, not just in your pocketbook, but also in your civil rights. As an advocate, we will fight every step of the way to make sure that you are compensated for any damages that you may have suffered due to these types of offenses.

Title: Texas Criminal Lawyer - Money Laundering and White Collar Crimes

Date: August 17, 2012

White collar crimes are those crimes committed by a person of status or power against businesses, their assets, and the people they trust. These crimes are commonly found in political scandals and corporate fraud, though they often go unnoticed by state regulators. However, this type of crime is treated as seriously in Texas as any other criminal offense. If you are being charged with money laundering or another related crime in Fort Worth or surrounding areas, it is important to contact an attorney who is experienced in white collar crime defense immediately. These lawyers can help you understand why you are being charged and what possible defenses you have at your disposal.

The Federal Money Laundering Control Act was passed to protect the integrity of the financial system. The illicit activities of criminals such as drug cartels and terrorists are still present, but the goal of that legislation is to keep money from these sources flowing into legitimate enterprises and businesses. This act incorporates several drug trafficking related offenses such as conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, title 18 U.S.C. § 982 (count 2), which is punishable by up to twenty years in prison if the defendant was found to have a major role in the enterprise or if more than $100,000 was laundered or otherwise used by the enterprise in furtherance of its operations.

Title 18 U.S.C.

Conclusion

As you can see, money laundering cases include three separate crimes:

1. Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances (drug trafficking)

2. Title 18 U.S.C § 982 (money laundering)

3. Title 18 U.S.C § 1956(h)(2) (transportation of fraudulent securities/treasuries)

Therefore, if a person is found to have a major role in the money laundering or drug trafficking enterprise, the penalties are quite severe as well as lengthy in duration.