After initially estimating the market value of the counterfeit designer goods that were seized in two Palm Beach boutiques was nearly $2 million, investigators have increased that figure to $3.4 million.
As reported in an interview last week, PBPD captain William Rothrock said the estimated market value could be higher — as it turned out to be — due to further authentication that was pending. Asked about the authentication process Thursday, he said, “We use a third-party expert to identify suspected counterfeit merchandise, seized the items, then had every single item evaluated by brand representatives to obtain affidavits on authenticity and value.
As for the counterfeiting allegations, Frank Steinhart, president of the Worth Avenue Association, which includes more than 100 retailers among its members, said, “It’s very sad that the situation is happening.” Having been with the association for more than 15 years, he said he was not aware of any similar incidents in Palm Beach. Steinhart said he does not know Blesk’s owner Austin. “I am not very familiar with the store. I know they have two locations. I really have never visited There are a lot of vintage stores in Palm Beach. Maybe when I walked by, I thought it was that type of establishment,” Steinhart said.