Bovingdon Market raided for fake goods (From Watford Observer)

Massive seizure of counterfeit goods from Bovingdon Market

12:35pm Tuesday 9th March 2010 in News By Amie Mulderrig

Counterfeit clothes, shoes and CDs have been seized from Bovingdon market following a joint operation by Hertfordshire Trading Standards and Hertfordshire Constabulary.

Believed to be the biggest ever seizure of counterfeit items in the county, the market was targeted on Saturday, March 6 and 11 stalls were found selling bogus goods.

Fake brands being sold included Prada, Gucci, Dior and DKNY, and as the items are still being counted, street value of the haul is not yet known.

Stallholders will be interviewed and could face prosecution - such as unlimited fines or up to ten years in prison.

The seizure follows a similar operation in November last year, when more than 5,500 counterfeit CDs and DVDs were seized from three stalls at the market.

Councillor Keith Emsall, said: "It's extremely disappointing that Bovingdon Market continues to be a source of illegal goods.

“Not only do consumers get ripped off, it also hurts legitimate local businesses - many of whom are already struggling in the current economic climate.

“We will continue to work with our partners to tackle the problems at the market and would like to thank the police for their assistance on Saturday."

Sergeant Tessa Barrow, of Hertfordshire Constabulary's Hemel Hempstead Neighbourhood Team, said: "This was a tremendous effort between ourselves and trading standards to tackle the sale of counterfeit goods at Bovingdon market.

“Operations like this are conducted to protect the public and I would urge anyone who may have any suspicions about the sale of counterfeit goods to contact police.”

Members of the public can report sales of counterfeit goods to Consumer Direct on 08454 040506, police on 0845 33 00 222 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.

Hertfordshire businesses needing advice should telephone Hertfordshire Trading Standards' business advice line on 01727 813849.