Facebook '˜faker' sentenced for selling fake designer products

A Facebook '˜faker' has admitted selling fake branded goods after she was caught by trading standards.
Some of the fake goods recovered from McGee's home by West Sussex Trading Standards. Picture: West Sussex County CouncilSome of the fake goods recovered from McGee's home by West Sussex Trading Standards. Picture: West Sussex County Council
Some of the fake goods recovered from McGee's home by West Sussex Trading Standards. Picture: West Sussex County Council

Alison McGee, of Chesham Close, West Worthing pleaded guilty to ten counts of selling fake branded goods, a spokesperson for West Sussex Trading Standards said.

McGee advertised a range of fakes on Facebook, including Chanel belts and Louis Vuitton handbags and crockery.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Trading Standards began investigating McGee in February 2016 following a consumer complaint.

An officer covertly purchased goods from McGee, including Louis Vuitton mugs, a Louis Vuitton key ring holder and a Gucci purse, the spokesperson said

These were confirmed as fakes by the brand holders.

A warrant was obtained and her house and car were searched in April 2016, where officers discovered further branded counterfeit items.

McGee was sentenced to a Community Order of 12 months. This includes 15 rehabilitation activity sessions and a 12 week curfew, according to trading standards.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

West Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for residents’ services, David Barling, said: “Our Trading Standards team did an excellent job in uncovering this faker.

“Deceiving buyers through the sale of counterfeit merchandise is a serious offence, hurting both innocent buyers and legitimate businesses.

“I hope this outcome serves to deter others who might be tempted to sell fake, branded items in West Sussex.”

West Sussex Trading Standards’ manager, Richard Sargeant, added: “We are committed to stopping the sale of fake goods here in our county.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We will pursue anyone we discover undertaking this illegal activity.”

Anyone with information about counterfeit goods can contact Trading Standards online at www.westsussex.gov.uk/tsreport or via Citizens Advice on 03454 040506.

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.