A Merthyr Tydfil resident has been successfully prosecuted by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Trading Standards department for operating a fraudulent business and having counterfeit goods in their possession, for the purpose of selling.
Appearing at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court, the 32-year-old male, who owns a store in Aberdare town centre, pleaded guilty to 14 offences relating to the sale and possession for supply of counterfeit tobacco products, dangerous goods and running a fraudulent business.
The successful charges were brought against the defendants by the Council’s Trading Standards Department following an investigation as a result of information received.
Officers carried out a test purchases at the store on January 28 and May 4, 2021, and counterfeit tobacco products were seized from the premises on February 5 and May 25, 2021, following complaints that illegal tobacco products could be purchased from the premise.
Louise Davies, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Director of Public Health, Protection and Community Service, speaking after the court case, said: “Once again, the Council has concluded a successful prosecution against a Rhondda Cynon Taf business owner in relation to the sale of counterfeit goods.
“The law is there to protect both the public and those bona-fide international companies who have a global reputation for selling quality goods at reputable outlets.
“Our Trading Standards officers, working on information received, carried out a thorough investigation, which has resulted in this successful prosecution. The sale of these counterfeit goods was not only detrimental to consumers, but also to the honest traders.
“Consumers also have the right to know that items they are purchasing fit the description being offered.”
The male, who the Council has decided not to name, was fined £360, ordered to pay a further £600 court costs and an additional £36 victim surcharge.
