Federal authorities say more than $47 million in counterfeit merchandise was seized recently at the Patapsco Flea Market in Baltimore, MD, the Associated Press reports. Federal agents raided the market as part of a two and a half year investigation, according to the report, and seized nearly 220,000 counterfeit items including clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, DVDs, CDs, perfume, makeup and other personal care items. Had those items been legitimate, authorities say, the total manufacturer’s suggested retail price would be about $47.3 million. Five people reportedly were charged with selling the counterfeit items.
While a small percentage of the nation’s flea market vendors have been found to engage in illegal activities, the majority of Patapsco Flea Market’s 250 vendors are reputable merchants and the market has been serving the community for nearly a quarter of a century. The 300,000 square foot market, which attracts hundreds of shoppers each weekend, is open all year on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Indoor spaces rent for $45 and yard spaces cost $25 for the weekend.
For more information:
Patapsco Flea Market
1400 West Patapsco Ave.
Baltimore, MD
Phone: 410-354-3040
Web: patapscofleamarket.com/