Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department officials announced the seizure of approximately $10 million worth of counterfeit designer streetwear from a commercial warehouse in Arcadia. The discovery was made on August 25, when the department's Counterfeit and Piracy Enforcement Team (CAPE) executed a search warrant.
Discovery and Seizure
The raid followed the interception of a suspicious shipment by federal border inspectors. During the operation, deputies discovered and seized nearly 26,000 items of counterfeit apparel and accessories. Among the seized goods were knockoff items bearing the brands Adidas, Nike, and Fear of God ESSENTIALS. Photos released by the Sheriff's Department show numerous boxes filled with the fake merchandise.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the origin of the shipment or the identity of the sender. As of the announcement, no arrests had been made, and the suspect associated with the business operating out of the warehouse remains at large. The investigation into the business is ongoing.
Broader Enforcement Efforts
This seizure is part of a larger effort by the Sheriff's Department to combat the trade of counterfeit goods. Over the past year, the CAPE team has conducted approximately 25 raids, resulting in the confiscation of counterfeit items valued at up to $25 million.
The department also issued a warning about the expanding scope of fraud, noting that counterfeit versions of everyday products, such as laundry detergent, dog food, and pet medicine, are also being produced. These fraudulent products can pose significant health risks to consumers.
The CAPE Team actively monitors events where counterfeit products are frequently sold, including preparations for major sporting events like the 2026 World Cup that will be held in Los Angeles.