A FACEBOOK trader from Pontypool has pleaded guilty to 19 separate trade mark charges relating to the sale and possession for sale of nearly 100 counterfeit items following a Torfaen Trading Standards investigation.

David Thomas, of Co-operative Terrace, Garndiffaith, who was using a fake name in an attempt to avoid being identified, was taken to court after Trading Standards found him selling on a number of Facebook selling sites items which were believed to be counterfeit.

Among the items for sale were clothing, footwear, sunglasses, headphones and speakers displaying brands such as Adidas, Nike, Stone Island, Apple, Timberland and Ralph Lauren.

Thomas appeared at Cwmbran Magistrates Court on Monday, November 14, and pleaded guilty to19 charges in relation to the fraudulent use of trademarks.

He was given credit for his early guilty pleas but due to the number of offences he received a community order. He was given a curfew for 56 days from 8pm to 6am. He must also pay a victim surcharge of £85 and costs £150. An order was made for the forfeiture and destruction of the counterfeit items.

Cllr Gwyneira Clark, Torfaen executive member for planning and public protection said: “This should be seen as a major deterrent for people who think they can make money by selling fake goods via social media.

“Generally these products are of poor quality and have been shown to be dangerous.

“I am asking residents that they only buy goods from reputable or accredited sellers. By purchasing counterfeit goods, consumers are supporting illegal and criminal traders and undermining legitimate businesses.”

Anyone with information can contact Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen Trading Standards team on 01633 647623, e-mail trading.standards@torfaen.gov.uk or visit torfaen.gov.uk/en/Business/TradingStandards/Trading-Standards.aspx