Crime & Safety

$300K In Bucks-Bound Counterfeit Car Parts Intercepted: Customs

Philadelphia Customs agents said the shipment from China, addressed to a Feasterville-Trevose location, contained 5,657 pieces.

The shipment included vehicle door locks, hinges, powered mirrors, steering wheel switches, headlights and taillights, grills, rear bumpers, and paint kits.
The shipment included vehicle door locks, hinges, powered mirrors, steering wheel switches, headlights and taillights, grills, rear bumpers, and paint kits. (Customs and Border Protection)

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Several hundred thousand dollars' worth of counterfeit automotive parts were recently seized by Customs and Border Protection agents in Philadelphia.

According to Customs officials, a shipment from China arrived in Philadelphia on June 4 with 5,657 items including vehicle door locks, hinges, powered mirrors, steering wheel switches, headlights and taillights, grills, rear bumpers, and paint kits.

Officers suspected the auto parts to be counterfeit and detained them.

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After consulting with the agency's automotive experts who worked with trademark holders, the parts were confirmed counterfeit on July 17. Officers officially seized the parts on July 14.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price of the automotive parts is $295,052.

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The parts were destined to an address in Feasterville-Trevose in Bucks County.

"Unscrupulous repair shops and greedy internet vendors that value profits over safety place motorists in severe peril," said Keith Fleming, CBP's Acting Director of Field Operations in Baltimore. "Customs and Border Protection officers will continue to intercept counterfeited or pirated goods because we want consumers to be confident in knowing that the products that they purchase are safe for themselves and their families."

Originally written by Max Bennett.


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