Tom Corbett (R)
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Legal Newsline) - A Lackawanna County, Pa., business that dealt in counterfeit designer items has been closed as the result of a consumer protection settlement.
"The distribution and sale of look-alike or counterfeit merchandise is not only deceptive, but also potentially harmful to legitimate businesses and consumers," Attorney General Tom Corbett said. "Depending on the circumstances, phony goods can also be potentially hazardous because they have not been subject to safety testing or other consumer protection guidelines."
Sherry Yashkus of Clarks Summit, operating as New York Style Accessories and NY Style Accessories, agreed to the assurance of voluntary compliance with Corbett over allegations that she sold counterfeit versions of expensive ladies purses and other accessories carrying the well-known designer and manufacturer names of Prada, Dooney & Bourke, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana without informing consumers that the items purchased were not authentic. Yashkus is also alleged to have failed to properly register her business with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
The consumer protection agreement reached with Yashkus permanently prohibits her from selling purses, handbags or similar accessories to the public.
As part of the settlement, Yashkus surrendered over 150 counterfeit handbags and other items, which will be destroyed. Yashkus also agreed to pay $1,000 in civil payments and $1,000 in court and investigative costs.