Editor’s Note
This article reports on the arrest of a Miami-area businessman accused of selling counterfeit luxury goods. The information is based on an official arrest report and initial media coverage. The story may be updated as the case proceeds through the judicial system.
A businessman with jewelry stores in Miami and Hialeah was detained by Miami-Dade County authorities, accused of selling counterfeit products from renowned luxury brands in his establishments.
Manuel DeJesus Beltrán-Machado, 43, was arrested on Wednesday on charges related to the sale of counterfeit items whose value would exceed $20,000, according to the arrest report, as indicated by ‘Telemundo’.
Authorities identified him as the owner of two jewelry stores named Las Villas.
According to the official report, both locations offered pieces that imitated brands such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Chanel, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Prada, and Rolex.
The investigation was initiated by the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office after receiving information about the possible sale of non-authentic products.
According to the report, a brand-specialized investigator made two purchases at each establishment at prices considerably lower than market value.
Subsequently, the items were analyzed and confirmed as counterfeits.
Although the retail value of these pieces would have exceeded $5,700 if they had been authentic, the payment made was approximately $350, the report details.
On February 12, investigators executed search warrants at both jewelry stores. In the location in Hialeah, 136 pieces with luxury brand markings were seized, whose estimated value, if original, would exceed $894,000, according to official documents.
According to the media, another 126 counterfeit pieces were found in the store located in Miami.
Authorities calculated that their retail market value would reach $939,895 if they were authentic.
In total, the estimated sum would amount to $1,833,965.
Beltrán-Machado appeared before authorities accompanied by his lawyer and was placed in jail. On Thursday, he appeared before a judge, who set a bail of $5,000, according to available judicial information.