RIAA Anti-Piracy Seizure Information
U.S. Busts - April 2006
Georgia | Illinois | Kentucky | Maryland |Michigan | Minnesota | Nevada
New Jersey |New York | North Carolina | Ohio |Oklahoma | Oregon | Pennsylvania
Rhode Island | South Carolina | Tennessee |Texas | Virginia | Dominican Republic
Alabama
April 20, 2006 - One suspect was arrested at his home by members of the Huntsville Alabama Police Department after failing to assist the department in lieu of being arrested for piracy. The suspect was stopped on March 30, 2006 by the Huntsville Alabama Police Department STAC team for speeding and not having a license plate displayed. The offender had in his possession narcotics and 892 piratical CD-Rs. At the time of his arrest, a search of his house revealed a lab with a seven CD-R unit burner and an additional 25 piratical CD-Rs were seized and other computer equipment.
March 15, 2006 - A street vendor in Montgomery was observed selling counterfeit CD-Rs and placed under arrest. Seized from the suspect were 946 piratical CDs and CD-Rs, 144 piratical DVDs, an undisclosed amount of illegal narcotics and a handgun.
March 5, 2006 - The Monroeville Alabama Police were called to a domestic violence call and during the investigation, the wife stated that her husband made music CD-Rs and sold them out of their home. Police, who had attended previous piracy training at a seminar in Birmingham found four CD-R burners, 128 master CD-Rs, computer equipment and a receipt for blank CDs bought at Wal-Mart. The defendant was arrested at the scene.
March 2, 2006 - A recidivist was convicted in Mobile County Alabama District Court and was sentenced to one year jail time (suspended for two years probation), court costs, a $2,000 fine and ordered to pay $6,000 in restitution to the RIAA. The defendant was first arrested in October 2005, with 976 piratical CD-Rs in his possession and again in December 2005 at the same location with 574 piratical CD-Rs.
Arizona
March 20, 2006 - The Phoenix Police Department, while conducting an illegal alien smuggling investigation, discovered an illicit music and movie distribution operation inside a residence. A total of 1,532 counterfeit movie DVDs, 893 counterfeit CDs and an unspecified amount of packaging materials were recovered. The owner of the residence was arrested on felony charges.
Arkansas
February 17, 2006 - The Fort Smith Police Department executed a narcotics search warrant and seized a pound of marijuana and 633 piratical CD-R from the owner of the residence. The suspect was arrested and has charges pending for narcotics and violation of the Arkansas Actual Name and Address Statute.
California
April 23, 2006 - The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department conducted an enforcement sweep at a high school swap meet in Los Angeles County. RIAA investigators assisted sheriff's deputies in seizing 819 pirate CDs, 837 piratical CD-Rs and 857 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. Deputies arrested three flea market vendors selling illicit product at the location.
April 22, 2006 - The San Diego County Sheriff's Department, with assistance from the RIAA, raided a swap meet in San Diego and seized 3,561 piratical CDs and 1,500 piratical CD-Rs. A total of eight suspects were arrested at the flea market on music piracy charges.
April 13, 2006 - The LAPD's Anti-Piracy Unit seized 9,143 counterfeit CD-Rs and arrested one suspect during the execution of a search warrant at a residence suspected of being a distribution operation in downtown Los Angeles.
April 13, 2006 - The San Diego Police Department executed a search warrant at a suspected residential burner lab in San Diego and arrested an individual with a recent prior arrest for music piracy. RIAA investigators assisted in seizing 16 CD-R burners, 1,545 counterfeit CD-Rs, 1,058 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and various raw materials inside the residence.
April 2006 - During the month of April, law enforcement officers in California arrested 84 individuals on music piracy charges. LAPD arrested 43 suspected music pirates in April. Additional arrests were made by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, San Diego PD, San Diego County Sheriff's Department, Oakland PD, Santa Ana PD, Orange PD, Costa Mesa PD, Anaheim PD, El Monte PD, Whittier PD, Ontario PD, Rialto PD, San Bernadino County Sheriff's Department and the California Highway Patrol.
March 30, 2006 - San Bernadino Sheriff's Department detectives were executing a search warrant involving identity theft crimes and uncovered a burner lab inside a residence in La Puente. Police seized 24 CD-R burners, 5,694 piratical music CD-Rs and raw materials used in the manufacture of pirated DVDs and CD-Rs. The primary suspect at the location was arrested on felony charges.
March 26, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Los Angeles Police Department in conducting raids at the Los Angeles City College Swap Meet. As a result of this action, 1,030 piratical music CDs and 289 music CD-Rs were seized by authorities and four suspects were arrested at the scene.
March 23, 2006 - The Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a residence in East Los Angeles and seized 603 counterfeit movie DVDs and 2,455 CDs (pressed high quality product). The suspect was arrested on felony charges.
March 22, 2006 - A Rialto barber shop was raided by detectives from the San Bernadino Police Department following undercover buys that resulted in the execution of a search warrant and seizure of 1,927 counterfeit CD-Rs and 444 counterfeit movie DVDs. The arrested suspect is a parolee with felony convictions for selling PCP drugs and for participation in a criminal street gang, according to court records. He was arrested and held without bail.
March 22, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Los Angeles Police Department in conducting a raid at an indoor mall in downtown Los Angeles. The officers arrested seven vendors selling pirated music and seized 6,790 counterfeit CD-Rs during the raid.
March 16, 2006 - The Los Angeles Police Department's Anti-Piracy Unit, assisted by RIAA investigators, executed a search warrant at a burner lab in Sun Valley. This action resulted in the seizure of 28 CD-R burners, 1,678 counterfeit CD-Rs and 1,734 counterfeit movie DVDs. The two suspects at the location were arrested on felony charges.
March 15, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in the execution of a search warrant at a distribution location in East Los Angeles. Authorities seized 13,976 counterfeit and piratical CDs (pressed high quality product) and arrested five suspects at the location on felony charges.
March 3, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Anaheim Police Department in executing a search warrant in downtown L.A.'s infamous "Santee Alley" and recovered 7,374 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. Anaheim Police developed information from a street vendor arrested in Orange County and traced the source of the pirate product to the distribution location in Los Angeles.
March 2006 - In total, during the month of March, law enforcement officers in California arrested 90 music pirates engaged in the distribution, sale or manufacture of pirate product. LAPD officers made 46 music piracy arrests during March. Other arresting agencies included the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, San Bernadino PD and San Bernadino County Sheriff's Department, Anaheim PD, Santa Maria PD, Pasadena PD, Hawthorne PD, Chino PD, Huntington Park PD, Indio PD, Ontario PD, CHP officers, San Luis Obispo Sheriff's Department, San Diego PD, and Sacramento PD. These enforcement actions netted more than 70,000 counterfeit and piratical music CDs and CD-Rs seized during the month of March.
February 2005 - During the month of February, law enforcement officers arrested 68 music pirates engaged in the sale of counterfeit goods. The Los Angeles Police Department topped the chart for most handcuff actions during the month with arrests from other branches including the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department, the Mountain View Police Department, Sacramento PD, Anaheim PD, Buena Park PD, Costa Mesa PD, Orange PD, Santa Ana PD, Ontario PD, Chino PD, Riverside County Sheriff's Department, San Bernadino PD, Calexico PD and the San Diego PD. More than 37,000 counterfeit/piratical music CDs and CD-Rs were seized by police and/or recovered by RIAA investigators during the enforcement actions. RIAA investigators supplemented law enforcement arrests with civil enforcement actions taken in February against twelve music retail stores in Los Angeles and San Diego counties.
Connecticut
February 9, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Waterbury Police Department in the execution of a search warrant at a retail music store on Main Street also operating as a CD burning lab resulting in one arrest and the seizure of six CD-R burners and 2,250 piratical CD-Rs.
Delaware
April 20, 2006 - During an investigation into a retail store, Wilmington Police conducted a raid at the location and seized a total of 418 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, numerous amounts of counterfeit clothing and an unspecified amount of counterfeit DVD-Rs. RIAA and MPAA investigators responded to the station to assume custody of audio / video evidence and one suspect was arrested and charged accordingly
March 2, 2006 - A recidivist was arrested during a routine traffic stop when Delaware River & Bay Authority Police observed illegal CDs inside the vehicle. Police recovered 160 counterfeit CD-Rs and RIAA investigators respond to the station to identify the evidence. RIAA investigators were informed that a search warrant would be served at the suspect's home.
Florida
April 13, 2006 - Members of the Miami Police Department , while on quality of life enforcement, responded to a video store on 17th Avenue. The Motion Picture Association of America assisted Miami Police at the retail location which resulted in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of 3,246 counterfeit CD-Rs, 1,981 counterfeit movie DVDs and four CD-R towers containing 27 CD-R burners.
March 19, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Orlando Police Department with flea market enforcement at the Central Florida Fair in Orlando. This resulted in the arrest of eight offenders and the seizure of 8,216 counterfeit CD-Rs, 184 molded CDs, 677 counterfeit music DVDs, 203 music MP3s, and 829 counterfeit movie DVDs.
January 28, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted members of the Okeechobee Sheriff's Department in vendor enforcement and arrested two suspects at a flea market on US Highway 441 South in Okeechobee. Seized as a result were 3,500 CD-Rs and 300 counterfeit movie DVDs. Following the seizure, RIAA investigators assisted members of the Okeechobee Sheriff's Department on January 31 in a consensual search at a hotel on North Parrott Avenue associated to the arrest made at the flea market. The search resulted in one arrest and 15 CD-R burners, 1,000 counterfeit CD-Rs, 30 molded CDs and 400 blank CD-Rs were seized.
January 20, 2006 - The Motion Picture Association of America assisted members of the Volusia County Sheriff's Office in enforcement actions against a vendor manufacturing and selling CD-Rs & DVDs from a gas station on North Nova Road in Daytona Beach. The enforcement resulted in the arrest of one suspect and the seizure of 1,201 counterfeit CD-Rs, 228 counterfeit movie DVDs, 14 CD-R burners, a television and one VHS/DVD player. RIAA investigators responded to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office regarding the examination of the CD-Rs seized and providing depositions to the arresting officer.
January 18, 2006 - A Pensacola defendant was sentenced to five years probation, $919 in fines and court costs and $3,300 in restitution to the RIAA as the result of a raid in May of 2005 at the Pensacola Flea Market. Led by a joint operation consisting of members of the Escambia County State Attorney's Office, the Escambia Sheriff's Office, the RIAA and the MPAA, 4,062 piratical CD-Rs and fourteen vehicles used to transport the goods were seized. An unspecified number of CD-R burners were also seized at the time of his arrest.
Georgia
April 28, 2006 - Members of the Atlanta Police Department acting on intelligence that a store front location was engaged in the sale of narcotics and illegal CDs, seized 4,165 counterfeit compact discs and 2,605 counterfeit DVDs. The store owner offered to cooperate with police in reference to the narcotics found in his store. In lieu of his cooperation the police did not charge him with the sound recording violations.
March 24, 2006 - The Atlanta Police executed a search warrant on Stone Hogan Road and discovered a CD burner lab in operation by two individuals who were arrested on the scene. Uncovered as a result of this investigation were 7,160 piratical CD-Rs, 4,035 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and 35 CD-R burners. During the investigation, the Atlanta Police Department developed probable cause on an office next door that later resulted in the seizure of three lbs of marijuana, various firearms and the arrest of eight suspects.
March 10, 2006 - The Atlanta Police Department executed a search warrant at the USA Flea Market and discovered two booths selling pirated music. A total of 2,004 piratical CD-Rs, 185 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and a tower with 8 CD-R burners were seized. The operator of the first booth was arrested on the scene. The second booth was found unoccupied and it is unknown who the owner was.
February 5, 2006 - The Jefferson Police Department seized 3,046 counterfeit CDs from the Pendergrass Flea Market.
January 14, 2006 - After a brief investigation, members of the Atlanta Police Department, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search and seizure warrant at a known distribution location located on Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard. During the operation a total of 5,975 counterfeit CD-Rs, 2,980 counterfeit movie DVDs and 93 CD / DVD burners were seized from three locations within the flea market. Arrested on the scene were four suspects who were transported to central booking for further processing.
January 11, 2006 - Atlanta Police were conducting a narcotics investigation on a retail store located on Cascade Road in Atlanta. During their investigation, the officers arrested the owner on narcotics charges and uncovered a distribution operation run from a back room in the store. A total of 14,749 piratical CD-Rs and 4,440 piratical movies were recovered from the location. The suspect is cooperating with police and no further charges will be filed.
Illinois
April 5, 2006 - Following an investigation by RIAA investigators, RIAA and MPAA investigators joined Harvey police in a sweep of several different local retail stores. The sweep resulted in three arrests and the seizure of 879 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 882 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and eight CD/DVD burners.
February 26, 2006 - RIAA and MPAA investigators assisted Chicago Police with the execution of a search warrant at the home of a manufacturer, who is also a recidivist. Officers contacted RIAA and MPAA investigators after receiving the information from a confidential informant. RIAA investigators and police confiscated 1,479 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 1,273 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 23 CD-R burners, three boxes of empty CD & DVD jewel cases and three printer / scanners. A large quantity of marijuana was also confiscated from the home. The suspect was arrested and charged accordingly.
February 26, 2006 - A bad beat tip received by the RIAA regarding a Chicago retail store selling counterfeit items lead to a seizure by the Chicago Police Department. Confiscated during this enforcement action were a total of 2,122 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 728 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and 28 CD/DVD burners. RIAA investigators and confidential informants made several undercover buys at the location before informing the Chicago police.
January 29, 2006 - Information was provided to RIAA Investigators that a large quantity of illegal music CDs and movie DVDs were being sold at a flea market in Matteson. Investigators went to the location and made an undercover purchase and contacted the Matteson police who upon their arrival, seized 4,313 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. Both of the suspects on the scene were arrested and charged with felony violations and it was later discovered that the CDs were shipped from Los Angeles to Matteson via Federal Express mail.
Kentucky
April 7, 2006 - The Louisville FBI responded to a complaint regarding the illegal reproduction of sound recordings and movies. Upon gaining consent from a "knock and talk", agents located a burner lab in the suspect's residence. Agents seized 27 CD-R burners, 4,000 piratical CD-Rs and 5,957 counterfeit movie DVDs. The AUSA is preparing to indict the subject.
February 2, 2006 - The Lexington Police Department executed a search warrant after receiving information of a possible burner lab operation. Upon entry into the suspect's residence, three CD-R burners, 291 Pirated CD-Rs and 17 counterfeit movie DVDs were seized. The owner confessed to the manufacturing and distribution of the items and was charged under Kentucky's True Name and Address Statute.
Maryland
April 11, 2006 - RIAA investigators and the Baltimore City Police Department executed a search warrant at a local retail store. A total of 1,642 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,200 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs were seized. The storeowner and sales clerk (both recidivists) were arrested and charged accordingly.
April 2, 2006 - While on routine patrol, officers with the Baltimore City Police Department observed an individual selling counterfeit CD-Rs and DVD-Rs from the trunk of his vehicle. The suspect was arrested and charged, and 1,175 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 440 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs were seized. RIAA investigators responded to the station and assumed custody of the evidence.
March 19, 2006 - The Maryland State Police made a traffic stop as a result of a speeding violation. During the stop, another driver approached the officer and stated that the suspect in the vehicle hit his car and fled the area. The suspect was driving on a suspended license and placed under arrest. An inventory of the vehicle revealed 2,828 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs as well as 728 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. RIAA investigators responded to the station to sign complaints and assume custody of the evidence.
March 10, 2006 - The Baltimore City Organized Crime Division, with the help of RIAA investigators, executed two search warrants at residential locations. Officers and RIAA investigators confiscated 4,986 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, several thousand DVD-Rs, one laptop computer and other equipment relative to distribution operations from the locations. Also seized were two vehicles used in the operation and four suspects were charged with various anti- piracy violations.
March 3, 2006 - A Baltimore recidivist pleaded guilty to two counts of music piracy and one count for movie piracy. The suspect was ordered to pay $500 in restitution to the RIAA and $500 in restitution to the MPAA. As the defendant was in violation of his federal probation he was re-sentenced to five years in federal prison. At the time of the suspects arrest, the Baltimore City police seized 175 counterfeit CD-Rs and 184 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
February 17, 2006 - A Baltimore man was found guilty of one count of TNA in Maryland State District Court and sentenced to six months in jail. The conviction was the result of the defendants arrest in July of 2005 after the Baltimore City Police Department observed the defendant selling counterfeit CDs out the back of his vehicle. A total of 1,171 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 176 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs were seized at time of arrest.
January 26, 2006 - A Baltimore city man was convicted with two charges for the unauthorized sale of counterfeit music and movies. He was sentenced to eight months in jail. The Baltimore City Police Department confiscated 218 counterfeit CD-Rs and 61 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs during the time of his arrest.
January 25, 2006 - Maryland man was convicted and sentenced to 18 months in prison and 18 months probation resulting from an arrest by the Baltimore City Police after they observed the defendant at a local flea market selling illegal CDs and DVDs. At the time of his arrest, officers seized 555 counterfeit and piratical CD- Rs and 226 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
January 24, 2006- A Baltimore man was recently found guilty for the sale of illegal music and movies and given a sentence of one year jail time, one year probation and fined $5,000. This conviction is the result of the defendant's September 2005 arrest after the Baltimore City Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant's place of business and confiscated 5,995 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,740 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
January 24, 2006 - A Baltimore store owner received a seven year (suspended) prison sentence and five years probation after he was convicted in Baltimore City Circuit Court for the sale of counterfeit music and movies. This conviction and sentence is the result of defendant's arrest in November of 2005 after the Baltimore City Police Department searched his business and confiscated 5,517 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,400 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
Michigan
April 26, 2006 - A Michigan man was convicted and sentenced to 24 months probation and ordered to pay $10,000 restitution to the RIAA and $10,000 restitution to the MPAA. The conviction and sentence was the result of defendant's arrest in November of 2004, where the Detroit Police Department and RIAA investigators confiscated 7,535 counterfeit CD-Rs, numerous DVD-Rs, 18 CD-R burners, computer equipment, and two handguns from his residence. It is reported that this is the largest restitution award for this type of crime in the State of Michigan to date.
April 22, 2006 - Detroit police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling 90 mph in a 55 mph zone. While interviewing the driver, officers smelled a distinct odor of alcohol and the driver was asked to perform a road sobriety test. The driver was taken into custody when it was determined she was intoxicated. Subsequent to the arrest, the suspect's vehicle was searched and officers observed several CD and DVD cases on the front seat. Officers informed RIAA and MPAA investigators and requested they report to the station to identify evidence. Investigators identified and seized 1,274 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,044 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs from the suspect's vehicle. Following the interview with the suspect, a warrant was obtained and executed at the suspect's residence where an additional 529 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 653 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, seven CD/DVD burners, one computer, an all-in-one printer/scanner/copier/fax, and two firearms were seized. The suspect has been charged with several felony violations.
April 13, 2006 - After following a tip and making an undercover purchase from a residence, the Wayne County Sheriff's Department, assisted by MPAA investigators, conducted a raid on the residence and confiscated 66 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 14 CD/DVD-R burners and 4,032 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. Also seized from the residence were two computers, one scanner, one printer and one copier. The owners of the residence were arrested and charged with felony violations.
April 5, 2006 - A Detroit recidivist was arrested after Michigan State Police conducted a traffic stop and observed illegal CD-Rs inside the vehicle. RIAA investigators were requested to report to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Bay City to inventory the CD-Rs. Investigators confirmed the illegality of 1,839 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. Agents informed investigators that the suspect admitted to the continued sales of counterfeit CDs and DVDs since his arrest in January 2006, in which police seized 8,024 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,389 counterfeit DVD-Rs.
March 30, 2006 - RIAA investigators were contacted by Detroit police and informed that police had arrested a suspect for the sale of what was believed to be bootleg CDs and DVDs. RIAA and MPAA investigators responded to the Western District Station and confirmed that 722 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs as well as 511 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs were unauthorized copies. Investigators were given the opportunity to interview the suspect who then provided a name and phone number of a distributor / manufacturer of CD-Rs and DVD-Rs. This case is still under investigation
March 29, 2006 - The Eastern District of the Detroit Police Department, assisted by RIAA and MPAA investigators, conducted a plain view seizure at the Conner Flea Market in Detroit. A total of 1,527 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 455 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and seven CD/DVD burners were seized from one vendor. Prior to the raid, MPAA investigators had made several undercover purchases of DVDs and informed RIAA investigators after observing the CD-Rs. The vendor was arrested and charged accordingly.
March 22, 2006 - A Michigan manufacturer pleaded guilty in the Wayne County Circuit Court and was sentenced to 24 months probation and ordered to pay $1,500 restitution to the RIAA and $1,500 restitution to the MPAA as well as $900 in court costs. The defendant was arrested during a traffic stop where the Detroit Police Department observed 1,957 counterfeit CD- Rs, 1,747 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and eight CD-R burners inside his vehicle.
March 13, 2006 - A Michigan woman was sentenced to 24 months probation and ordered to pay $1,500 restitution to the RIAA after pleading guilty to felony charges of music piracy. The defendant was arrested in January of 2006 after the Detroit Police Department identified the suspect at the site of a raid with narcotics in her vehicle. Seized from her vehicle were a total of 630 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. February 22, 2006 - RIAA and MPAA investigators were contacted by the Harper Woods Police Department to assist in an investigation of music piracy that started in January of 2006. The suspect was arrested at a Shell Gas Station in Harper Woods where he was in possession of 75 counterfeit CD-Rs and 20 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. A subsequent warrant at the suspect's residence by the police revealed an additional 4,869 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 1,658 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, three CD/DVD-R burners and two computers. Also seized from the residence were three firearms, four bags of Marijuana, one bag of Crack Cocaine and one bag of an unknown powder.
January 29, 2006 - A recidivist was arrested at the County Line Flea Market in Warren. RIAA Investigators made several undercover buys from the vendor and informed police of the illegal activity. Upon their arrival, officers confiscated 3,132 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 383 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 10 CD / DVD burners, one CD player and one DVD / MP3 player. The suspect and his brother were arrested and charged accordingly.
January 19, 2006 - A Detroit man was arrested after police observed numerous music CDs and movie DVDs inside his vehicle during a routine traffic stop. Police notified RIAA investigators and requested help with identifying the evidence. RIAA investigators responded to the Detroit Police Department and confirmed the illegality of 1,957 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. A total of 1,747 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and eight CD / DVD burners were also seized.
January 19, 2006 - During a routine traffic stop, a Michigan State Trooper observed CDs and DVDs inside the suspect's vehicle. The driver admitted to the Trooper that he manufactures, distributes and sells counterfeit music and movies and was arrested accordingly. The Trooper notified FBI agents and the suspect agreed to a search of his residence where several CDs, DVDs and other manufacturing equipment were found at which point, RIAA investigators were requested to report to the FBI office to identify and inventory the evidence. Confiscated from the offender's vehicle and residence were a total of 8,024 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 1,389 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 14 CD / DVD burners, 300 blank CD-Rs, 950 blank DVD-Rs, 90 empty jewel cases and 250 CD / DVD paper sleeves.
January 19, 2006 - A Detroit man was arrested after police observed numerous music CDs and movie DVDs inside his vehicle during a traffic stop. Police notified RIAA Investigators who responded to the request for help with identifying the evidence and confirmed the illegality of 1,957 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 1,747 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and eight CD / DVD burners, all of which were seized.
Minnesota
January 29, 2006 - An informant advised RIAA Investigators that counterfeit CDs were being sold at the Minneapolis Convention Center. RIAA investigators went to the convention center and conducted a voluntary surrender agreement at a booth and confiscated 605 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs. This case and the suspects involved are still under investigation.
Nevada
April 19, 2006 - Troopers from the Nevada Highway Patrol arrested three suspects during routine traffic stops and seized 2,367 counterfeit CD- Rs and 56 pressed CDs.
New Jersey
February 18, 2006 - A Wildwood hair salon owner was arrested after Wildwood Police Department executed a search warrant at the business. Police seized 1,980 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 1,792 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
New York
April 25, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 30th Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a burner lab in New York City. As a result, five suspects were arrested and two towers containing five CD/DVD burners, 1,150 piratical CD-Rs, and 307 counterfeit music DVD-Rs were seized.
April 14, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 67th Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a CD burner lab located on Church Avenue in Brooklyn. The enforcement action resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of eight CD-R burners, 10,396 piratical CD-Rs, 204 counterfeit CD-Rs, and 210 counterfeit movie DVDs.
April 13, 2006 - The New York Police Department, Midtown South, assisted by the RIAA, conducted enforcement action at a distribution location on West 39 Street in New York City. Seized in connection to the enforcement action were a total of 8,900 counterfeit/piratical CD-Rs and 7,400 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
April 6, 2006 - The New York Police Department's Midtown South Precinct, assisted by the RIAA investigators conducted enforcement action at a distribution location on West 35th Street in New York City. As a result, two suspects were arrested and 11,120 counterfeit/piratical CD-Rs and 5,750 counterfeit DVD-Rs were seized.
April 6, 2006 - Also on this date, the New York Police Department's 1st Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a distribution location on Canal Street in New York City and arrested two suspects. Seized as a result were 6,880 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs.
April 13, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 40th Precinct, assisted by RIAA investigators, executed a search warrant at a burner lab located on West 146 Street in New York City. Resulting from the enforcement action were one arrest and the seizure of two DVD/CD towers containing 14 CD-R burners, 785 piratical CD-Rs, 1,518 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 100 master CDs, and raw materials.
April 3, 2006 - As part of an ongoing investigation into "Operation Deceitful Wares" the New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division, along with the United States Secret Service ECTF, executed seven state search warrants at a building on Broadway in New York City. As a result, eight suspects were arrested and charged. Seized in total as a result of the enforcement actions were a total of 20,800 counterfeit CD-Rs, 71,428 counterfeit movie DVDs, 5,597 counterfeit handbags, 2,866 counterfeit sneakers, 900 counterfeit wallets, 770 counterfeit sunglasses, 206 counterfeit boots, 176 counterfeit shoes and $9,898 in US currency. Several of the trademarks violated included Coach, Louis Vitton, Kate Spade, Prada, Gucci, Fendi, Nike and Timberland.
April 2, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's 13th Precinct in enforcement action on West 28th Street in New York City that resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 16,600 counterfeit/piratical CD-Rs and 4,000 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
March 16, 2006 -The Spring Valley Police Department, along with the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a burner lab located on North Main Street resulting in one arrest and the seizure of five towers consisting of 11 CD-R burners, two printers, assorted raw material, 1,300 piratical CDs, 1,200 pirated CD-Rs and 500 counterfeit CDs.
March 16, 2006 - At another location, also on this date, the Spring Valley Police Department along with the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a burner lab also located on North Main Street resulting in one arrest and the seizure of one tower consisting of eight CD-R burners, 1,245 piratical CD-Rs, and various raw materials.
March 14, 2006 - The 67th Precinct of the New York Police Department, along with the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a CD-R burner lab located on Church Street in Brooklyn resulting in two arrests and the seizure of seven towers containing 46 CD-R burners, 3,200 piratical CD-R, three computers, two laptops, one mirage printer, one laser printer and a loaded 9mm handgun.
March 13, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York police with enforcement on West 37th Street in New York City. This action resulted in two arrests and the seizure of 12,600 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 4,300 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
March 10, 2006 - The 70th Precinct of the New York Police Department conducted enforcement action at a retail store in Brooklyn. This resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 56 CD-R burners, 1,300 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 450 movie DVD-Rs.
March 9, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Bronx District Attorneys Squad in the execution of a search warrant at a burner lab on Morris Avenue. This warrant resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 25 CD-R burners, 900 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 100 counterfeit music DVDs and 2,600 counterfeit movie DVDs.
March 9, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 25th Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a storage unit acting as a distribution location on Park Avenue in New York City. Seized as a result were 4,000 counterfeit CD-Rs, 4,800 piratical CD-Rs and 2,800 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
March 8, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Brooklyn District Attorneys Squad in the execution of a search warrant at a burner lab on Patchen Avenue. The warrant resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 80 CD- R burners, 5,850 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, one rimage printer, 5,000 insert labels and 1,980 counterfeit movie DVDs.
March 8, 2006 - At a separate location, RIAA investigators assisted the Brooklyn District Attorneys Squad in the execution of a search warrant at a distributor location on Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn. This warrant resulted in the seizure of 5,600 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 2,600 counterfeit music DVDs and 14,500 counterfeit movie DVDs.
March 7, 2006 - RIAA investigators received information from the Suffolk County District Attorney's Rackets Bureau that a Queen's man pled guilty to a felony and was sentenced to 1 1/2 years in state prison. The suspect was arrested in August of 2003 with 725 counterfeit CD-Rs in his possession and again in July of 2004 with 48 counterfeit CD-Rs and 225 piratical CD-Rs.
March 2, 2006 - The New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division, along with RIAA and MPAA investigators, conducted multiple search warrants in Brooklyn. This first enforcement action on Vernon Avenue resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of 69 CD-R burners, 1,200 piratical DJ mix CD-Rs, 1,606 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, a laptop computer, one printer and several boxes of raw materials.
March 2, 2006 - A second operation was led on Fulton Street. This action resulted in the arrest of one suspect and the seizure of 28 CD-R burners, 16,900 piratical DJ mix CD- Rs, 1,900 music DVD-Rs, 9,909 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and boxes of various raw materials. Also on Fulton Street, a further warrant led to the arrest of another suspect and the seizure of seven burners and 5,100 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. A seizure at a third location on Fulton Street resulted in the seizure of 35 burners, 10,300 piratical DJ mix CD-Rs, 1,400 music DVD-Rs and 7,105 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
March 2006 - The enforcement actions in the state of New York resulted in the seizure of more than 70,895 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 56,350 counterfeit movie DVDs and 365 CD / DVD Burners.
February 20, 2006 - The Suffolk County Police Department's 1st Precinct Crime Section, along with the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a burner lab located at 325 Merritt Ave in Wyandanch, resulting in the arrest of one suspect who is known to be a gang member. Seized from the lab were five CD-R burners, 1,050 piratical CD-Rs, 255 counterfeit music DVDs, two printers, 111 master CDs, 200 blank CD-Rs, $20,000 in US currency and 140 counterfeit movie DVDs as well as other trademarks that included Duracell Batteries, Nike and Reebok.
February 16, 2006 - The New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division Unit executed a search warrant on Broadway in New York City. As a result of this enforcement action, one suspect was arrested and 6,300 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 600 counterfeit music DVDs and 7,004 counterfeit movie DVDs were seized.
February 15, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 28th Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a CD burner lab and a distribution operation located on 7th Avenue in New York City. As a result of these enforcement actions, three suspects were apprehended and seven towers containing 44 (52X) CD burners were seized. Also confiscated during the search were 16,000 counterfeit CD-Rs, 11,800 piratical CD-Rs, a printer, one shrink wrap machine, one heat gun, two boxes of raw materials, inserts and one box of CD Masters.
February 13, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's 13th Precinct in the execution of a search warrant on West 29th St in New York City. This action resulted in the seizure of 12,200 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 4,000 counterfeit movie DVDs.
February 9, 2006 - The United States Probation and Parole Department, while conducting a search on a supervised parolee, observed an active burner lab resulting in the arrest of one suspect and the seizure of 20 CD-R burners, 307 counterfeit music DVDs, 54 counterfeit CD-Rs, 74 piratical CD-Rs, 304 counterfeit movie DVDs, one computer, one printer and various raw material.
February 9, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 13th Precinct executed a search warrant on 5th Avenue in New York City that resulted in the seizure of 7,938 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 5,450 counterfeit movie DVDs.
February 8, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division execute a search warrant at 247 West 35th Street in New York City. This action resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 8,300 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 8,300 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
January 26, 2006 - The New York City Police Department Organized Crimes Investigations Division Unit with the United States Secret Service and assisted by the RIAA and MPAA, executed four search warrants on Broadway in New York City. As a result, three suspects were arrested and the seizure of 23,000 counterfeit CD-Rs and 32,000 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
January 18, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's 79th Precinct in executing a search warrant at a retail record store on Fulton Street in Brooklyn. This action resulted in the arrest of 3 subjects and the seizure of 30,408 piratical and counterfeit CD-Rs. January 17, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's 63rd precinct with the execution of a search warrant on Church Street in Brooklyn. This action resulted in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of 4,734 piratical CD-Rs. It was later discovered that one of the offenders admitted to making the CD-Rs in the basement of his apartment. After giving consent to search his residence, 44 CD-R burners and other raw materials were seized.
January 10, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division Unit in the execution of a search warrant on West 27th St in New York City. Seized were a total of 8,100 counterfeit / piratical CD-Rs and 4,300 counterfeit movie DVDs.
January 5, 2006 - The New York Police Department's 13th Precinct assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at a sandwich shop in New York City. The enforcement resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 13,000 counterfeit / pirated CD-Rs and 6,505 counterfeit movie DVDs. An additional search on 8th Avenue resulted in five additional arrests and the seizure of 33,600 counterfeit CD-Rs and 19,104 counterfeit movie DVDs.
January 3, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the New York Police Department's Organized Crimes Investigations Division Unit in the execution of a search warrant on Rosedale Avenue in the Bronx. The enforcement resulted in one arrest and the seizure of eight towers containing 74 CD-R burners (52x), 3,400 counterfeit / piratical CD-Rs and 2,304 counterfeit movie DVDs. A separate search warrant executed on West 36th Street in New York City resulted in the seizure of 12,400 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 12,960 counterfeit movie DVDs.
North Carolina
April 22, 2006 - The RIAA and NC Secretary of State conducted a raid at a flea market located on Rock Quarry Road in Raleigh. Six suspects were arrested and charged, two voluntary surrenders were issued and 3,242 CD-Rs were seized.
April 19, 2006 - Agents with the North Carolina Secretary of State's Office and RIAA investigators entered a retail store located in Sanford. Upon entering the business authorities located hundreds of pirated recordings. Upon further investigation into a back room, a burner lab was discovered. Seized from the store were 33 CD-R burners, 9,640 piratical CDs, 5,400 jewel cases, and 357 CD Inserts. The owner will be charged at a later date.
April 15, 2006 - RIAA investigators and the Wilson Police Department conducted a raid at Liberty Warehouse. Upon entering the market, authorities seized 3,010 piratical CD-Rs and arrested one vendor who had been the suspect in two prior RIAA investigations. She had been arrested three times in the past year, including arrests in Virginia and North Carolina.
April 14, 2006 - RIAA investigators executed a Voluntary Surrender Agreement in Lewiston- Woodville and seized a total of 2,600 counterfeit CD-Rs from a vendor located on Main Street.
March 18, 2006 - The Spartanburg Sheriff's Office conducted a raid at the Spartanburg Flea Market following RIAA training two weeks earlier. This resulted in the arrests of four individuals and the seizure of 1,279 piratical CDs and CD-Rs.
March 17, 2006 - Following a call to the RIAA by an informant, a raid was conducted at a retail store on West Plaza Drive in Mooresville. Upon receipt of the information law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at the location and seized a total of 1,435 counterfeit CD-Rs along with five CDR burners. No charges have been filed at this time.
February 7, 2006 - The Burke County Sheriff's Office received information regarding a possible burner lab. Investigators obtained consent to search the residence in question and confiscated four CD-R burners, 12 piratical CD-Rs, 227 counterfeit movie DVDs as well as various labels, blank media and other raw materials. The occupants were charged with a combination of charges including True Name and Address violations, Counterfeit Trademark violations and manufacturing illegal product. One of the suspects was also charged with possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon.
February 4, 2006 - The Gastonia Police Department and Gaston County Police, acting upon a tip provided by the RIAA, executed a search warrant on a local business. Upon gaining entry, authorities located 33 CD-R burners, 1,782 piratical CD-Rs and 602 counterfeit DVDs. The owner has been arrested twice previously for the illegal distribution of illegal recordings within the past year and a half.
February 1, 2006 - The Greensboro Police Department initiated a vehicle stop on I-40 and uncovered a mobile burner operation while conducting a search of the vehicle. Officers seized 261 pirated CD-Rs, 949 counterfeit movie DVDs and one CD-R Burner. The operator of the vehicle admitted to making the unauthorized recordings while in his vehicle.
January 10, 2006 - RIAA Investigators assisted the NC Secretary of State's Office with a raid on a variety store located in Winston-Salem. A total of 2,009 counterfeit CD-Rs were seized and no arrests were made due to the strong possibility of the case going to federal law enforcement. Immigration Customs Enforcement is interested due to and estimated $300,000 in counterfeit goods being seized from the location.
Ohio
April 25, 2006 - RIAA investigators and Cincinnati Police located a retail store in Cincinnati offering counterfeit CDs and DVDs for sale. The owner was issued a warning. Two days later, the investigator and the Cincinnati Police returned to the store and observed two individuals exiting the store with duffel bag who returned immediately inside the store after seeing the police. Law enforcement officers witnessed the two individuals abandon their duffel bags and attempt to exit through the front door. The officers stopped the two suspects and ordered them to open the abandoned duffel bags and discovered counterfeit DVDs and CDs. The store still contained the same CDs and DVDs that were present on April 25th at the time of the warning. Officers found one 9mm handgun in the waistband of the owner and one 45 caliber pistol under the counter. The suspects with the duffel bags were ordered to leave. In a security search, officers entered a back room and found a locked door. The room was filled entirely with counterfeit CDs and DVDs. Seized from the store were a total of 3,294 counterfeit CD-Rs, 2,563 piratical CD-Rs, 7,147 counterfeit movie DVDs, 7,200 blank CD-Rs, 11,651 CD jewel cases and 3,948 blank DVD cases.
April 5, 2006 - During a routine traffic stop, Linndale Village Police observed a suspect in possession of a small amount of counterfeit CDs. The suspect told the police that he purchased the CD-Rs at a retail store in Cleveland. Police began an investigation on the store and found that there were two locations, both in Cleveland. Warrants were obtained for both locations and police, assisted by RIAA investigators, seized a total of 748 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs from both stores. In addition to the CD-Rs, at one location a 9mm handgun (serial number removed) with two magazines was seized and at the other location a Ruger SP101 .357mag with five live rounds of ammunition was seized. Three individuals were arrested and charged with felonies.
February 14, 2006 - RIAA and MPAA investigators, along with the Warren Police Dept. conducted a raid at the Warren Flea Market in Ohio. Three vendors were arrested and 1,207 counterfeit CD-Rs and 1,489 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs were seized. The owner and manager of the flea market are scheduled for training by the RIAA on how to identify counterfeit CDs and DVDs.
Oklahoma
January 11, 2006 - While executing a narcotics search warrant, Officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department seized six CD-R burners, two printers, one scanner and 850 piratical CD-Rs from the residence of the defendant. The suspect will be charged with violating Oklahoma's Actual Name Statute and also for drug possession.
Oregon
March 17, 2006 - Detectives from the Gresham Police Department uncovered a music and movie burner lab while executing a narcotics search warrant inside a residence in Gresham. Authorities arrested the suspect and seized four CD-R burners, 3,500 counterfeit CD-Rs and 1,200 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
Pennsylvania
April 2, 2006 - While investigating a homicide at a Philadelphia retail store, Philadelphia police observed counterfeit CDs and DVDs while interviewing witnesses. The interviewing Detective had been assigned to the 35th District and was aware of the counterfeit music and movie problem and proceeded to seize 118 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, seven counterfeit music DVD-Rs and two counterfeit movie DVD-Rs; the store owner was arrested and charged. RIAA/MPAA investigators reported to the station to sign complaints and assume custody of the evidence.
March 7, 2006 - A retail store owner was arrested by the Harrisburg Police Department after giving police consent to search his business for counterfeit CD-Rs and movie DVD-Rs. Detectives of the Harrisburg Police Department and MPAA investigators searched the business and discovered 2,505 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 14 VHS tapes, three DVD-Rs in a mailer and approximately 3, 224 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs as well as five CD/DVD-R burners. RIAA investigators were informed of the raid and responded to the station to sign complaints and inventory the evidence.
March 3, 2006 - Pittsburgh FBI agents executed a search warrant at a retail store on Fifth Avenue Street following several month of surveillance. The owner of the business stated that he receives his merchandise from New York City and it is shipped to him through the Greyhound Bus Station. The owner provided agents with a phone number of the person he ordered the merchandise from but refused to cooperate any further at which point, he was taken into custody. Agents will present the case to the U.S. Attorney's Office for an indictment. Recovered from the store were 2,573 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, 5,000 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs and numerous purses and watches valued at more than $300,000. RIAA investigators responded to the FBI office to help with inventory and charges.
March 1, 2006 - Following a two-day trial in Lebanon County Court in Pennsylvania, a recidivist was sentenced to a minimum of four months to two years in prison and ordered to pay $23,217.35 in restitution to the RIAA. During the defendant's second arrest for music piracy, Pennsylvania State Troopers seized 1,533 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs from a vehicle driven by the defendant.
February 26, 2006 - RIAA and MPAA investigators assisted Chicago Police with the execution of a search warrant at the home of a manufacturer who is also a recidivist. Investigators and police confiscated 1,479 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs, 1,273 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, 23 CD-R burners, three boxes of empty CD & DVD jewel cases and three printer/scanners. A large quantity of Marijuana was also confiscated from the home. The suspect was arrested and charged accordingly.
February 23, 2006 - Philadelphia police, assisted by RIAA & MPAA investigators, executed a search warrant on a distribution location in Philadelphia. Seized were 4,302 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs and 5,545 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. The distributor was arrested and charged accordingly. RIAA investigators had been investigating this location since December of 2005; surveillance and evidence purchases had been made on several occasions before police were notified.
January 31, 2006 - A Philadelphia man was found guilty and sentenced to 23 months in prison and ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution to the RIAA. This conviction was the result of an arrest made in October of 2004 after Philadelphia police observed 289 counterfeit CD-Rs inside the defendant's vehicle.
January 27, 2006 - Following a six month investigation by RIAA investigators, Philadelphia Police (East Detective Division) executed search warrants at two residences believed to be manufacturing illegal music CDs and movie DVDs. Confiscated from the two residences were 468 counterfeit and piratical CD-Rs, two counterfeit music DVD-Rs, and 1,371 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs as well as a 357 Caliber Colt Combat Cobra handgun and a box of ammunition. The weapon was previously reported as stolen in New Jersey and one individual was arrested and charged.
January 10, 2006 - A seven time offender known widely for the sale of counterfeit music and movies pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 23 months in prison and one year reporting probation. He was also ordered to pay $500 in restitution based on an arrest made in September of 2005 when Philadelphia police observed him selling illegal CDs and DVDs. Confiscated at the time of his arrest were 156 counterfeit CD-Rs and 209 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs.
January 10, 2006 - A Philadelphia recidivist was convicted and sentenced to 23 months jail time and ordered to pay $500 in restitution to the RIAA. The defendant has a history of several arrests for the sale of counterfeit music and movies. The latest arrest was during August of 2005 when Philadelphia police observed him attempting to sell illegal CDs and DVDs on a highway. Seized at the time of the arrest were 154 counterfeit CD-Rs, three counterfeit music DVDs and 141 counterfeit DVD movies.
January 6, 2006 - RIAA investigators conducted surveillance on Wayne and Chelton Avenues, an area known for the sale of illegal CDs and DVDs in Philadelphia. Investigators observed two males selling illegal CDs and DVDs and notified Philadelphia Police. The police arrived on the scene and seized 854 counterfeit / pirate CD-Rs and 782 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs. Both individuals were arrested and charged accordingly.
Rhode Island
January 28, 2006 - The Rhode Island State Police and the United States Department of Homeland Security with assistance from MPAA and RIAA investigators, executed four search warrants and made a sweep of street vendors and mobile distributors in the City of Providence. This enforcement action resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the seizure of 8,492 counterfeit CD-Rs, 3,613 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, one CD-R burner and five vehicles used to transport the illicit product.
South Carolina
April 28, 2006 - Immigration Customs and enforcement agents with the North Charleston office arrested one suspect after he was found to be operating a CD burner lab. Subsequent to the investigation, 2,300 counterfeit CD-Rs, 1,393 counterfeit movie DVD-Rs, three CD-R burners, and hundreds of blank discs were seized. The lead case agent was an attendee of an RIAA Intellectual Property Theft course three days prior to the seizure.
April 11, 2006 - RIAA investigators and the Lee County Sheriff's Office conducted a raid at a local retail store and discovered a manufacturing operation consisting of five CD-R burners and 1,980 counterfeit CD-Rs, all of which were seized.
March 2, 2006 - A search warrant was executed at a retail store after information was received during a recent South Carolina flea market raid that led authorities to the business. Items seized from the location included 1,032 counterfeit CD-Rs. The owner of the business was charged under South Carolina State Statutes.
January 28, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Sumter Police Department with a raid at a flea market. Seized during the raid were 1,014 counterfeit CD-Rs, 288 counterfeit movie DVDs and the two vendors on the scene were arrested and charged.
January 26, 2006 - Camden Police executed a search warrant at a retail location that was under investigation for distributing counterfeit goods. Upon entering the business, law enforcement located 739 counterfeit CD-Rs as well as numerous counterfeit trademark violations. The owner is currently under investigation in this matter. The defendant in this matter was arrested in July of 2002 after both of his retail locations were raided and over 3,400 piratical CD-Rs and 7,952 counterfeit cassettes were seized. He pled guilty in December of 2002 and was ordered to pay $24,000 to the RIAA which was paid in full in less than a month.
January 15, 2006 - York County Sheriff Department conducted a raid at The Flea Market at Pineville in Fort Mill and arrested three suspects. Seized from the vendors were a total of 1,292 counterfeit CD-Rs.
Tennessee
April 28, 2006 - RIAA officials and the Memphis Police Department executed a search warrant on a suspected burner lab. Information was developed after the suspect was the victim of a Breaking & Entering dispute. Officer's clearing the residence for investigation purposes located the lab. Upon leaving the scene a search warrant was drafted and executed. Authorities seized three CD-R burners, 1,694 piratical CD-Rs, and 33 bootleg videos. The owner of the residence was arrested and charged.
April 25, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted Memphis Police with an investigation into a retail CD shop. Upon gaining information of a possible burner lab, authorities sent undercover officers inside the business to confirm their suspicions. Upon gaining entry, officers located 11 CD-R burners and 3,416 piratical CD-Rs. Both owners were arrested and charged with criminal simulation.
April 25, 2006 - RIAA investigators traveled to Charleston to examine suspected counterfeit compact discs seized from two suspects on February 8th 2006, during a traffic stop initiated by members of the Tennessee Drug Taskforce. The suspects stated that they were antique dealers traveling to Houston, however, a consent search of the vehicle revealed 154 suspected counterfeit compact discs, $67,557 in cash and a small quantity of cocaine. The offenders were arrested on scene and transported to the 10th Judicial District Drug Task Force HQ for further processing. Both subjects were subsequently charged with violations of the Tennessee True Name & Address Statute.
Texas
April 20, 2006 - RIAA investigators, in response to a member company complaint initiated by the father of late recording artist Selena, assisted Nacogdoches Police Department with a search warrant at a retail CD store. The location was previously issued a Cease & Desist in August of 2003. Officers seized 966 high quality pressed CDs, many of which contained counterfeit Universal Music, video and distribution security tags from the retail location. This investigation is currently ongoing and charges are pending against the two suspects.
April 14, 2006 - RIAA Investigators, in response to a member company complaint (Disa Records), assisted Houston Police Department with the arrest of a street vendor. The vendor was selling CD-R pirates from a backpack in an apartment complex in close vicinity to a legitimate record store. Houston Police seized 209 CD-R pirates from the vendor and charges will be filed for violation of Texas' Actual name and address statute.
March 29, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Longview Police Department with a search warrant and seizure at a retail food store located on North 4th Street. Officers seized 1,589 piratical CD-Rs and 880 counterfeit movie DVDs. The owner of the store was arrested and will be charged with violating the Texas Actual Name and Address Statute.
March 21, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Southlake Police Department with plain view seizures at the Southlake Flea Market located in the Dallas / Fort Worth area. Southlake Police seized 2,482 piratical CD-Rs, 113 piratical movie DVDs and arrested three vendors.
March 18, 2006 - RIAA investigators assisted the Nacogdoches Police Department with plain view seizures from a trade fair and confiscated 2,500 counterfeit CD-Rs from a vendor. The vendor was arrested and will be charged with violating the Texas Actual Name and Address Statute.
February 4, 2006 - Voluntary surrenders were conducted against street vendor located on Columbia Avenue and Second Avenue in Dallas. Surrendered by two vendors as a result were a total of 2,466 piratical CD-Rs.
January 20, 2006 - Members of the Dallas Police Department Central Deployment Unit arrested a street vendor in Dallas and seized 812 piratical CD-Rs.
January 14, 2006 - Acting on multiple complaints from member companies, RIAA investigators went to the 2900 block of Lombardy Lane in Dallas to investigate street vendors in the area of the El Paisano Taqueria and the Taco Grande Taqueria. While at the location, four individuals were found selling piratical CD-Rs. The investigators contacted patrol officers who arrived on the scene and proceeded to arrest all of the suspects. In total, 3,945 piratical CD-Rs were seized.
Virginia
March 17, 2006 - Several members of the Norfolk Police Department entered the Fair Price Flea Market located on East Little Creek Road. A package taken from FedEx by the Norfolk Police Department Interdiction team containing 8,500 counterfeit music CD-Rs was seized and three suspects were arrested.
Dominican Republic
March 24, 2006 - The RIAA in conjunction with Adoprofono, seized three CD-R towers, 12 CD-R burners, one CPU with three towers (39 CD-R burners total), 12,310 counterfeit CD labels, one white Chevrolet Opel van and one gun during a raid in Santo Domingo. An individual at the site was arrested and charged.