Baldwin County deputies have uncovered a sophisticated counterfeit Apple product operation that spans multiple states and even reaches as far as China. The investigation began with a routine traffic stop and has since revealed a highly organized scheme involving stolen identities and trade secrets.
Key Takeaways
- Baldwin County deputies discovered nearly 200 counterfeit Apple items, including AirPods, watches, and headphones.
- The operation involved purchasing real Apple products, creating counterfeit versions, and returning the fakes for refunds.
- The authentic Apple products were then shipped to China for resale.
- Two suspects from Malaysia have been arrested and charged with multiple offenses.
- The Department of Homeland Security is also involved in the investigation.
The Discovery
The investigation began with a traffic stop on I-65, where deputies pulled over a vehicle for driving at 40 miles per hour while the driver was watching a YouTube video on a cell phone. Inside the car, deputies found nearly 200 counterfeit Apple products, including AirPods, watches, and headphones, valued at over $50,000.
The Suspects
Vincent Tang, 36, and Chalvin Tan, 24, both from Malaysia, were arrested and charged with trafficking in stolen identities, theft of trade secrets, and possession of a forgery device. According to Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Col. Anthony Lowery, the suspects would purchase real Apple products, create counterfeit versions with fake serial and IMEI numbers, and return the fakes to stores like Target for refunds.
The Operation
The counterfeit operation was highly organized and sophisticated. The suspects used a laser engraver to create fake serial numbers and IMEI numbers on the counterfeit products. They would then return these counterfeit items to stores and receive refunds, while the authentic Apple products were shipped to China for resale. This scheme was not limited to Baldwin County but stretched across multiple states, including Louisiana and Florida.
Broader Implications
The Department of Homeland Security is now involved in the investigation, which has revealed that the operation targeted multiple Target stores in Mobile, Pensacola, and Gulf Shores. The suspects had been staying at a Red Roof Inn in Bay Minette for a few days, but investigators believe the operation extends far beyond Baldwin County.
Conclusion
This case highlights the complexity and sophistication of modern counterfeit operations. The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, along with federal agencies, continues to investigate the full extent of this multi-state scheme. The arrests of Tang and Tan mark a significant step in dismantling this elaborate network.