A MAN from Wokingham who sold counterfeit car accessories has been fined more than £21,000.

Jianhui Dong, of Ashville Way, first came to the attention of Trading Standards when a representative from BMW Group (UK) purchased a black and white bonnet badge from a seller on eBay and found the part to be counterfeit.

Following an investigation by the Public protection Partnership (PPP), more than 3,600 counterfeit car products were seized which which bore registered trademarks of different manufacturers including Jaguar/Land Rover, Mercedes and Porsche. The goods were valued at more than £100,000 had they been sold.

Mr Dong pleaded guilty on May 9, 2016 to one count of selling or offering for sale goods bearing or likely to be mistaken for registered trademarks, between April 2013 and September 2014, contrary to Section 92 of the Trade Marks Act 1994. He was sentenced to two years imprisonment on the June 17, 2016. 

Following his conviction, confiscation proceedings were started and an application under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 was considered by Reading Crown Court on February 15.

Presiding over the case, Her Honour Judge Lamb found that Mr Dong’s lifestyle had benefited from his criminal conduct, therefore deciding to recover a total of £21,572, and issued a Confiscation Order requiring him to pay that amount. Mr Dong could face an 18 month prison sentence if he does not pay the amount within three months.

Chairman of the Joint Public Protection Committee, Cllr Norman Jorgensen said: “This Confiscation Order has resulted from the sale of counterfeit goods on a significant scale. It sends a clear message that anyone involved in this illegal activity runs the risk of receiving a custodial sentence and confiscation of any assets. 

“Selling counterfeit goods is not a victimless crime. It damages the interests of legitimate businesses and consumers alike. The penalties can be severe for those that engage in this activity.”