South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 02/04/2012

Balvinder Singh, of Westbourne Road, pleaded guilty to two offences of selling and possessing counterfeit clothing under the Trade Marks Act 1994. The offences were committed at a market held at Filton recreational grounds in October 2009.

Officers were first alerted to Mr Singh after they received reports that counterfeit goods were being sold at the market. An officer attended and was able to make test purchases from a stall operated by Singh. He sold them a pair of fake Evisu jeans as well as a fake Lyle and Scott sweater.

The case was first heard earlier this year at Northavon Magistrates’ Court in Yate on February 13 and was then referred to crown court for sentencing on Monday 18 March.

Singh, who has previous convictions relating to possession of counterfeit goods dating back to 2007 and 2009, was warned by the court to change his behaviour before passing sentence. Judge Martin Picton also said further proceedings will be brought against Singh under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. A confiscation hearing under this legislation will take place in July when Mr Singh may be ordered to pay back any money he has made form his criminal activity.

Councillor James Hunt, executive member for communities, said: “This case sends a clear message to individuals involved in the sale of counterfeit goods that this activity not only leads to a criminal record and penalties, but you may also be forced to pay back any money you make from this type of criminal activity.”

Members of the public who witness the sale of counterfeit goods can report this activity in the strictest confidence by calling Citizens Advice on 08454 04 05 06.