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Secretary of State & Ridgeland Police Shut Down Counterfeit Merchandise Distributor

Ridgeland woman selling goods from her vehicle

4/6/2009
COLUMBIA -- The Secretary of State’s Office and the Ridgeland Police Department partnered to conduct a sting in Ridgeland on April 4, 2009, that resulted in the confiscation of $42,250 in counterfeit merchandise. Charged with distribution of counterfeit merchandise was Veronica Wright Bolden of 120 Orange Grove Road, Ridgeland, SC.

The counterfeit merchandise included purses, wallets, shoes, jeans, shirts, hats and scarves. Companies misrepresented were Burberry, Coach, Coogi, Dolce & Gabanna, Dooney & Burke, Ed Hardy, Evisu, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Prada. 

The Secretary of State’s Office worked with the Ridgeway Police Department to shut down the operation Bolden was running from her SUV parked at a laundry mat on South Jacob Smart Boulevard in Ridgeland. The counterfeit items will remain in storage while the Police Department awaits a court order to destroy them.

 “The sale of counterfeit merchandise is not a victimless crime. It hurts manufacturers, retailers, and the economy,” said Secretary of State Mark Hammond. “I encourage consumers to question low prices on known ‘designer’ items, as well as where the items are being sold.”  

Bolden may face fines up to $20,000 and/or five years in prison. Subsequent offenses may result in fines up to $50,000 and ten years in prison. Trafficking of counterfeit goods valued between $10,000 up to $50,000 is a felony with a fine up to $20,000 and five years in jail or both. This legislation was a result of the joint efforts of law enforcement and the Secretary of State’s Office. 

For more information regarding trademark violations or to register a mark, contact Secretary of State Mark Hammond’s office at (803) 734-2170.

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