CBP Seizes $1.4M in Counterfeit Sports Memorabilia in Cincinnati

In a significant operation leading up to Super Bowl LIX, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Cincinnati seized 85 shipments containing over 4,000 pieces of counterfeit sports memorabilia valued at $1.43 million. The shipments, primarily sourced from China and Hong Kong, included fake jerseys from various NFL, MLB, and MLS teams, as well as hats, coins, and jewelry. CBP officials emphasized the importance of their role in protecting consumers and legitimate businesses, warning that counterfeit goods can harm the economy and mislead sports fans. Notably, one shipment contained 156 counterfeit Baltimore Ravens jerseys destined for Florida, highlighting the detailed scrutiny officers applied to detect these items. Officials urged consumers to verify the authenticity of products and the legitimacy of sellers to avoid falling victim to scams. The operation reflects ongoing efforts to combat the influx of counterfeit merchandise ahead of major sporting events.