Sweetwater police arrested 24-year-old Luis Merchan-Meron at Dolphin Mall on two felony counts related to the sale of counterfeit merchandise, authorities announced Friday. Investigators reportedly seized more than 150 counterfeit items worth thousands of dollars from the back of his truck.
Court documents indicate that an undercover officer observed a transaction in the mall parking lot from about 10 feet away. Police moved in after witnessing Merchan-Meron allegedly selling designer bags to a buyer.
Operation Safe Holidays
Sweetwater Assistant Police Chief Frank Fernandez said the department has increased both uniformed and undercover security at the mall as part of the city’s “Operation Safe Holidays” program.
“We have eyes, drones, motorcycles, uniforms, and plainclothes officers. You can’t get away from us now,” Fernandez said.
Mayor Emphasizes Zero Tolerance
Mayor Jose “Pepe” Diaz reinforced the city’s strict stance against counterfeit sales, highlighting the investment in shopper safety.
“It’s all here to make sure that we protect those citizens that are coming here to make purchases. Have a good time with your families, but there are people trying to do illicit things like selling fake merchandise,” Diaz said.
Alleged Profit Margins
Court records show that Merchan-Meron told police he buys the counterfeit goods for about $8 each and sells them for up to $60. He claimed he does not know the supplier, only that the items are shipped from overseas.