Los Angeles, CA — In a record-breaking operation, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), and representatives from Gibson, seized more than 3,000 counterfeit Gibson guitars at the LA/Long Beach Seaport. If genuine, the illicit shipment from Asia would have carried a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of over $18.7 million.
The counterfeit guitars included a range of iconic Gibson Les Paul models, falsely marketed as authentic instruments. Gibson, renowned for its American-made craftsmanship, confirmed the guitars were counterfeit, emphasizing that all genuine Gibson instruments are handcrafted in the United States.
“This operation underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting consumers and legitimate businesses from the harm caused by counterfeit goods,” said Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles. “As the holiday shopping season approaches, consumers should exercise caution when deals seem too good to be true.”
A Threat to Consumers and Businesses
Counterfeit products harm American businesses, erode trust, and tarnish the reputation of iconic brands. They also pose risks to consumers, as they often fail to meet safety and quality standards.
“Intellectual property theft is not a victimless crime,” noted HSI Deputy Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “The proceeds from counterfeit sales often fund criminal enterprises engaged in forced labor, smuggling, and drug trafficking.”
Lieutenant William Kitchin of the LASD highlighted the broader impact: “Counterfeit goods harm legitimate businesses, erode consumer trust, and damage the reputation of iconic brands like Gibson.”
Gibson’s Legacy at Stake
Gibson CEO Cesar Gueikian expressed gratitude for the enforcement efforts: “Our partnership with CBP and other agencies protects consumers from being misled and ensures the integrity of Gibson’s legacy.”
Chief Marketing Officer Beth Heidt added, “This is personal for us, not only because of our players but also for the generations of artisans at our Nashville and Bozeman craftories who dedicate their lives to crafting Gibson instruments.”
As Gibson celebrates its 130th anniversary, the company remains committed to quality, craftsmanship, and its iconic legacy in the music world.
CBP’s Proactive Measures
CBP has implemented a dynamic enforcement strategy to deter the importation of counterfeit goods, safeguarding consumers and the economy. Africa R. Bell, CBP Port Director at LA/Long Beach, emphasized the dangers posed by counterfeit goods: “Counterfeiters are only interested in profit—they do not care about the well-being of consumers or the economy.”
This unprecedented seizure serves as a stark reminder for consumers to buy from trusted retailers and remain vigilant in identifying potential counterfeit products.