Online Counterfeiter convicted

On 15^th May 2024 at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court Lisa Hunt from Merthyr Tydfil was convicted for offences under the Trade Marks Act in relation to the supply of counterfeit goods.

Lisa Hunt was found guilty of seven offences related to the sale of counterfeit goods through a Facebook group. The conviction follows an investigation by Merthyr Tydfil Trading Standards into the unlawful trading activities conducted by the defendant. The court was told that over £11,000 was paid to Hunts bank account, which was thought to be form the sale of counterfeit goods via the Facebook group “Lisa’s Genuine Reps A**”. Hunt was selling counterfeit Chanel, Nike, YSL, Stone Island, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, and Prada branded goods, such as handbags, trainers, sliders, tracksuits and jewellery.  

HUNT was sentenced to 12 weeks custody for each of the seven offences with the sentence suspended for a period of nine months. Additionally, she was ordered to pay a contribution towards the prosecution costs amounting to £1,000 and a surcharge of £154.

Counterfeit goods pose a significant threat to consumers, legitimate businesses, and the economy as a whole. Merthyr Tydfil Trading Standards remains committed to tackling the sale of counterfeit goods and will continue to take robust enforcement action against those who seek to profit from such unlawful activities.

Paul Lewis, Head of Public Protection, said: “We are fully aware of the difficulties business face from unfair, illegal competition. Through robust enforcement we aim to ensure Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council continues to support legitimate businesses.”

Councillor Michelle Symonds, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing and Public Protections, commented: "The conviction of Lisa Hunt sends a clear message that Merthyr Tydfil Trading Standards will not tolerate the sale of counterfeit goods within our community. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect consumers and legitimate businesses from the harm caused by counterfeit goods."

Members of the public are reminded to remain vigilant when purchasing goods, particularly through online platforms, and to report any suspicions of counterfeit activity to Trading Standards.

For further information or to report suspected counterfeit activity, please get in touch with Merthyr Tydfil Trading Standards at Trading.Standards@merthyr.gov.uk or via Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133