Posted on: Wednesday 27 September 2023
A Pontypool woman has been prosecuted by Torfaen Council after being caught selling counterfeit goods using Facebook Messenger and Whatsapp.
Lisa Jane Bedding, 62, from Cwmavon Road, Pontypool pleaded guilty to advertising and selling counterfeits, which included fake handbags, footwear, watches and cosmetics, bearing designer names such as Prada, Mulberry, Ted Baker and Ugg.
Officers from the Council’s Trading Standards Team executed warrants at Ms. Bedding’s home and workplace after they received a tip off from a member of the public. They discovered a quantity of counterfeits at the premises, as well as price lists and handwritten orders.
Ms. Bedding used social media platforms to advertise products for sale at significantly lower prices than the genuine articles. She also organised sales events at her home and workplace.
Ms.Bedding admitted to 12 charges, consisting eleven counts pertaining to the sale and possession of counterfeit goods and one count of Fraud at Cwmbran Magistrates Court on Friday 23 June 2023.
On Friday 22 September 2023, Ms.Bedding appeared for sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, where she received a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. The Court also imposed a £75,000 Confiscation Order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 for the amount she was deemed to have gained from her criminal activities, and was ordered to pay the Council’s costs of £12,000. The Confiscation Order is required to be paid within three months. If payment is not made within this timeframe, Ms. Bedding could face nine-months imprisonment.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for Environment, said: "This should serve as a warning to individuals who believe they can profit from selling counterfeit goods.
“Torfaen’s Trading Standards Team works diligently to combat the sale and distribution of counterfeit items.
Those caught selling such products not only run the risk of a fine, but may also become subject to investigations under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and could potentially face a prison sentence, as demonstrated in this case.
Courts have the authority to confiscate money and assets to recover proceeds of crime where an offender cannot prove they have been acquired legitimately.
Counterfeit goods are typically of lower quality than the genuine product and can pose safety risks. Purchasing such items supports illegal traders, while undermining legitimate businesses. Residents are encouraged to buy products only from reputable sellers.”
Anyone with information about counterfeit goods, can contact Torfaen’s Trading Standards Team on 01633 647623 or e-mail trading.standards@torfaen.gov.uk
Further information be found at www.torfaen.gov.uk/tradingstandards