⏱ 2 min read
A New Mexico couple’s scheme to sell fake Native American jewelry as the real deal has been busted. Kiem Thanh Huynh, 60, and My Ngoc Truong, 61, pleaded guilty in Asheville federal court to smuggling and misrepresenting Indian goods.
The pair imported bulk counterfeit jewelry from Vietnam, claiming it was made by Navajo artisans. They sold it to unsuspecting customers, exploiting Native American culture and taking income from legitimate artists.
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson vowed to keep fighting counterfeiters, saying, ‘Protecting the integrity of Native American art and heritage is vital to preserving Indian cultural traditions and economic opportunity.’
Director Meridith Stanton of the Indian Arts and Crafts Board warned that counterfeit goods not only deceive buyers but also harm Native American communities.
Huynh and Truong face up to 4 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for their crimes.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: White Collar Crime
- Defendant: North Carolina
- Location: NC
- Source: DOJ Press Release
