Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

String of Counterfeit Fender, Gibson Guitars Seized at O'Hare

By DNAinfo Staff on January 10, 2013 4:47pm

CHICAGO — A slew of counterfeit guitars have hit a jam at customs at O’Hare.

Over the last few months, more than 50 electric and acoustic guitars have been seized by Chicago Customs and Border Protection officers at the O'Hare international mail facility, officials said in a news release.

The fake instruments bore brandname Fender, Gibson, Martin and Taylor trademarks and were valued between $300 and $700. They were shipped from China, officials said.

Border Protection officers worked with the trademark holders to determine whether the guitars were legitimate.

But it appeared to have been obvious they weren’t the real thing.

“The counterfeit guitars were found to have a different feel, look and sound in addition to being of substandard quality,” the release said.