Counterfeit Goods and Services Plague Massachusetts: A Revere Man’s Descent into Crime
BOSTON, MA – May 25, 2024 – In a shocking display of brazen disregard for intellectual property, Paul G. Adri, a 34-year-old Revere man, has been charged with one count of trafficking in counterfeit goods and services, one count of smuggling goods into the United States, one count of conspiracy, and one count of wire fraud.
According to the charging document, Adri improperly utilized trademarks held by Adidas, Nike, the NFL, and the NBA, among others, and ignored two separate notices from U.S. Customs and Border Protection relating to his illegal counterfeiting activities.
The charge of trafficking in counterfeit goods and services provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of no more than $2 million. The charges of smuggling goods into the United States and wire fraud each provide for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of no more than $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss. The charge of conspiracy provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of no more than $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss.
Adri was arrested on May 25, 2024, and released on conditions following an initial appearance. United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie Queenin of Lelling’s Cybercrime Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Revere man’s alleged crimes have far-reaching implications, not only for the victims of his counterfeiting activities but also for the broader community. The sale of counterfeit goods and services can lead to financial losses, damage to reputable businesses, and even pose a risk to public health and safety.
As the investigation into Adri’s activities continues, one thing is clear: the consequences of trafficking in counterfeit goods and services are severe. If convicted, Adri could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both.
Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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