ICE investigators seize $500k in fake merchandise during NBA Playoffs
SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU & Wires) - During the Golden State Warriors' run to the NBA title, San Francisco-based special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations seized nearly $500,000 in counterfeit merchandise associated with the basketball games, according to ICE officials.
The ICE investigators seized more than 14,000 fake T-shirts, hats, flags and decals during a month-long enforcement action coinciding with the NBA playoffs.
Large sporting events are often prime targets for counterfeit merchandise retailers.
During the San Francisco Giants' run to the World Series in the 2014 Major League Baseball playoffs, ICE investigators in the Bay Area seized more than 2,700 items worth $80,000, including fake MLB tote bags, pennants, beanies, T-shirts and hats, ICE officials said.
ICE officials have planned a news conference for Monday morning to provide more details about the seized NBA merchandise.