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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the frontline defense in preventing illegal and dangerous goods from entering the United States. Every day, CBP officers across the country work tirelessly to enforce regulations and seize violative shipments. These efforts help protect American consumers and businesses, ensuring that only safe and compliant products reach the U.S. market. January saw several major seizures—here are a few highlights.
Fraudulent Declarations & Undeclared Shipments
Gas Engines Seized for Fraudulent Entry at Minneapolis-St. Paul
CBP officers at Minneapolis-St. Paul’s Express Consignment Facility intercepted 42 pallets containing 1,134 fraudulent gas engines from China, valued at $1.34 million. The engines, intended for various U.S. businesses, were seized due to improper documentation and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). This seizure highlights CBP’s vigilance in preventing potentially hazardous or non-compliant goods from entering the U.S. market, ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance.
$1.9 Million in Undeclared Commodities Seized at Eagle Pass
CBP officers at Eagle Pass Port of Entry intercepted undeclared commodities worth over $1.9 million in a major export violation. The seizure included 52,500 cartons of cigarettes and 1,296 bags of protein powder, misrepresented as general merchandise on the shipment’s export invoice. The enforcement action underscores CBP’s commitment to securing U.S. borders while facilitating lawful trade. The seized goods resulted in a penalty of $16,971.
Agricultural & Environmental Violations
Dozens of Live Beetles Hidden in Japanese Snacks Seized at LAX
CBP agriculture specialists at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) intercepted 37 live beetles concealed inside packages of Japanese snacks, potato chips, and chocolate. The shipment, arriving from Japan, lacked the required USDA permits and posed a serious threat to U.S. agriculture. Smuggled beetles can become invasive pests, damaging crops, forests, and ecosystems. The seized insects were turned over to USDA officials for proper handling, likely to be donated to permitted zoos or preserved for research.
Counterfeit Goods
Counterfeit Tiffany & Co. Jewelry Seized at Champlain Port
CBP officers at the Champlain Port of Entry intercepted multiple shipments of counterfeit Tiffany & Co. jewelry, with a total estimated retail value of nearly $30,000. The fake luxury pieces violated Intellectual Property Rights and were seized to prevent fraudulent goods from entering the U.S. market. Counterfeit products pose risks to consumers and businesses, undermining legitimate brands and economic integrity. CBP remains committed to protecting intellectual property and preventing the trade of fake goods.
$5.2 Million in Counterfeit Jewelry Seized by CBP in Indianapolis
CBP officers in Indianapolis intercepted two shipments containing over 2,100 counterfeit luxury jewelry pieces, including rings, bracelets, charms, necklaces, and earrings. The fake items, bearing logos of brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Chanel, and Van Cleef & Arpels, would have been worth $5.2 million if genuine. As online shopping increases, CBP urges consumers to purchase from authorized retailers to avoid counterfeit goods, which undermine businesses and fund illicit activities.
Nearly 1,000 Fake IDs Seized by CBP in Chicago
CBP officers at O’Hare International Airport intercepted 984 counterfeit driver’s licenses in just one week, marking a surge in fake ID shipments as the spring semester begins. The IDs were hidden inside laptop chargers, plastic mirrors, and jewelry boxes. While many counterfeit IDs are used by underage students to purchase alcohol, authorities warn they are also linked to identity theft and organized crime. CBP continues to combat fraudulent documents to protect public safety and prevent illicit activity.
Louisville CBP Seizes Over $27 Million in Counterfeit Jewelry
CBP officers in Louisville intercepted 28 shipments of counterfeit designer jewelry in January, preventing nearly $27.5 million worth of fake watches, bracelets, rings, and necklaces from reaching U.S. consumers. The shipments, primarily from China and Hong Kong, violated protected trademarks and were seized by trade experts. Counterfeit goods undermine legitimate businesses, cost jobs, and can pose safety risks.
Currency Violations
$44K in Unreported Cash Seized at San Ysidro Port
CBP officers at the San Ysidro Port of Entry intercepted $44,148 in unreported currency hidden inside a food bag during an outbound vehicle inspection. A CBP K-9 unit alerted officers to the concealed cash, which was seized for suspected ties to illicit activity. Failing to declare amounts over $10,000 when crossing the border is a federal offense. CBP remains committed to preventing financial resources from reaching criminal organizations.
Facing a CBP Seizure? We Can Help.
If your business is dealing with a CBP seizure, navigating the complex process can be overwhelming. We have extensive experience handling CBP related matters and can help you respond to enforcement actions, mitigate penalties, and prevent future issues. Our team is ready to guide you through each step to ensure compliance and protect your interests. Have questions? Give our office a call today at (917) 546-6997 or schedule an intake meeting, we would be happy to speak with you.
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