Graham Russell, the County Council's Head of Consumer Services

Dealing a crushing blow to counterfeiters

New powers are to be used for the first time to crush vehicles seized from counterfeiters in Staffordshire.

The first vehicles to be disposed of were seized by Trading Standards Officers at car boot sales in the Cannock area. The officers were investigating the illegal sale of fake DVDs and video games.

Some people think that counterfeit DVDs and video games are an insignificant problem, in effect, a victimless crime - but it's a serious business for the consumer, for the industry and for society as a whole.

The destruction or confiscation of vehicles is the latest weapon in the fight against counterfeiters that already includes the powers to seize disk stocks, computers and duplicating equipment.

The link between organised crime and counterfeit goods is already well documented, but Interpol believe that DVD and video game piracy is now becoming the preferred method of funding for a number of international criminal groups; buy a counterfeit DVD or game and not only do you risk disappointment from a poor quality copy but you may also be supporting criminal activity.

Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health, Councillor Susan Woodward said: "Counterfeit DVDs and video games are produced by serious and well organised criminals who see counterfeiting as a high profit, low risk activity and a means to fund other illegal activity such as money laundering.

"While the public often perceive counterfeit DVDs and games as a 'soft crime' it is important for them to realise that this is simply not the case. Initiatives such as this will help get the message across to a wide group of people and help stem the significant problem of counterfeit DVD and video game sellers in pubs, clubs and car boot sales."

Anyone aware of a counterfeit DVD can report it anonymously by calling 0845 60 34567 or via www.piracyisacrime.com.

Counterfeit video games can be reported to www.elspa.com.  Alternatively, you can contact Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards on 01785 277888 or email consumer.advice@staffordshire.gov.uk

Page Last Modified: 30/01/2007 16:03:30

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