Alabama
April 18, 2005 - Following a weekend street sweep of vendors by Officers of the Birmingham, Alabama Police Department, 2,478 CDs (pirate and counterfeit) were seized and four vendors taken in to custody. Subjects were charged under the provision of Alabama's True Name and Address Statue.
February 14, 2005 - Birmingham Police seized 3,842 CD-Rs after a traffic stop in Birmingham, Alabama. 2 individuals were arrested.
Arkansas
April 30, 2005 - In Little Rock, Arkansas, a Voluntary Surrender was served by RIAA investigators and 315 pirate CD-RS were recovered from a man who identified himself as Ushinde Spears (but would not produce any identification). Mr. Spears is already awaiting trail stemming from his 2004 arrest by the FBI for his role in a large scale manufacturing operation also in Little Rock.
April 18, 2005 - Alert officers with the Conway Arkansas Police Department observed a man trying to load several hundred CD-Rs into his vehicle when they approached. The ensuing investigation produced a criminal seizure of over 3500 pirate CD-R's, 12 - 160 gigabyte hard drives full of music and 5 CD-R burners. The suspect is a convicted felon and local ICE Agents are seeking federal charges with the US Attorney's office in Little Rock.
Colorado
March 20, 2005 - Det. Faulhaber observed Jose Suarez selling pirated CDs from his booth at the Mile High Flea Market in Denver Colorado. Det. Faulhaber seized 54 CDs and issued the suspect a summons.
March 20, 2005 - Det. Faulhaber of the Adams, Colorado SO observed Francois Buianhvu selling pirated CDs from his booth at the Mile High Flea Market in Denver Colorado. Det. Faulhaber seized 55 cds from Buianhvu and issued him a criminal summons.
February 6, 2005 - The RIAA testified in front of the Colorado Legislature's Judiciary Committee in support of a bill that would elevate the penalties against persons found to be selling illicit sound recordings in violation of the Colorado True Name and Address statute.
Connecticut
April 26, 2005 - The NYO assisted the West Haven, Ct. Police Department in enforcement action at Jimmy's Army & Navy, 1035 Orange Ave., West Haven, CT. This action resulted in the seizure of 1080 pirate CD-R's and 4 music DVDs. No arrests have been made at this time pending an arrest warrant for the manager.
April 8, 2005 - The NYO assisted the New Haven, CT Police Department in enforcement action at a retail store, La Super Marqueta, 276 Grand Ave., New Haven, CT. This action resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 269 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs The genre of the music was 100% Latin.
April 8, 2005 - The NYO assisted the New Haven, Ct. Police Department in enforcement action at a retail store, Orient Courier Inc., 252 Grand Ave., New Haven, CT. This action resulted in one arrest and the seizure of 30 molded piratical CDs The genre of the music was 100% Latin.
DC
April 2005 - A known distributor in Washington, D.C. was arrested after the Metro DC Police Dept., assisted by RIAA investigators conducted a plain view seizure and confiscated 123 counterfeit CD-Rs and 140 DVD movies. Before the arrest, RIAA investigators observed the distributor selling the CDs from his vehicle. The police were notified and responded to the scene. The suspect’s vehicle was also seized. The suspect has been arrested over five times for sound recording violations and has two felony matters pending with the D.C. Superior Court.
Florida
April 21, 2005 - The City of Miami Police Department, with assistance from the RIAA, seized over 2,000 counterfeit/pirate music CDs and DVDs from a retail location in Miami, Florida. The owner of the store was arrested and charged with violating Florida State Statute 540.11. All of the product seized consisted of Latin repertoire.
April 16, 2005 - An investigation was conducted in Daytona Beach in reference to the event: Black College weekend. Two locations were noted: The 2nd Ave Festival and the strip along A1A on the beach. Approximately 5000 piratical CDs were seized from the 2 locations. Two subjects were charged under Florida's True Name and Address Statute. All music seized was of Urban genre.
April 15, 2005 - Isaiah Brown, dba Koolzell Productions, served as the most prominent distributor of infringing product in Jacksonville in recent history. Juan's most recent investigation of this repeat player resulted in the seizure of 10,617 counterfeit and pirate recordable compact discs from both a storefront and a manufacturing location on 7/26/03. Though the defendant pled guilty to two felony counts under the Florida true name and address statute for his most recent offense, he refused to settle the issue of restitution and elected to take his chances in court. To make matters worse, the defendant showed absolutely no remorse for his actions and exhibited outright arrogance to both the State Attorney's Office and the RIAA with regard to his case. Accordingly, Juan directed IC Drummond to put together a detailed representative sample of the seized product in order to establish that it was both illicit and member company material. On April 15, 2005, IC Bobby Drummond and Carlos Linares testified to these issues in District Court, and the judge ordered Mr. Brown to pay restitution to the RIAA in the amount of $101,112.41. (10,000 piratical discs x $10 wholesale cost per disc x 97% member co. material per rep. sample + $3,112.41 in investigative costs).
February 28, 2005 - The Tallahassee Police Department seized a total of 934 pirate/counterfeit CD-Rs and music DVDs, as well as a sound system, from a total of 3 vendors in 2 separate operations in Tallahassee, Florida. All of the individuals were arrested and charged with violating Florida State Statute 540.11. All of the product seized consisted of Urban repertoire.
February 24, 2005 - The St. Petersburg Police Department, assisted by the RIAA, seized 4,828 counterfeit/pirated CD-R's, 296 plant pressed Music DVD's, 41 CD-R burners @ 52X Speed, 1 Professional Printer, and 4 computers from four retail stores in St. Petersburg, Florida. Seven individuals were arrested during this operation and charged for violating Florida's True Name and Address Statute. The genre of music seized was 75% Urban Hip Hop and 25% Latin, containing such artist as, Marc Anthony, Jay -Z, Usher, and Shakira, among others.
February 23, 2005 - The Miami Dade Police Department, assisted by the RIAA, seized 7,456 pirated/counterfeit plant pressed CDs, and 1,371 plant pressed music DVD's, from an individual in Miami, Florida. This individual was arrested and charged with violating Florida's True Name and Address Statute. The genre of music seized was 100% Latin, containing artist such as, David Bisbal, Marco Antonio Solis, and Marc Anthony, among others.
February 11, 2005 - A C&D was served at Hess Gas Station in Fort Pierce, FL, after vendor refused to voluntarily surrender his product.
February 11, 2005 - Miami Dade Police Department, assisted by the RIAA, seized 4,876 counterfeit/pirated CD-Rs, 3,000 counterfeit inserts, and 21 CD-R burners at 52x speed, from an individual in Miami, Florida. The individual was arrested and charged with violating Florida's True Name and Address Statute. The genre of music seized was 100% Latin, consisting of such artist as Alejandro Fernandez, David Bisbal, Marc Anthony, among others.
Georgia
May 3, 2005 - The RIAA assisted the Atlanta Police Department (GA) in the execution of a search warrant at 1994 Perkenson Road. The location, a business called Dollar Power, was the subject of an investigation concerning the distribution of illegal CDs. Upon entering the facility an estimated 62,300 illegal counterfeit CDs were located and seized as evidence. In addition an estimated 30,300 counterfeit DVDs were also seized by officers. Charges are pending on several suspects involved in the case.
April 20, 2005 - Arrest of Antar Brown, at 291 Joseph E. Lowery in Atlanta, Georgia. Recovered 9,435 CD-Rs and 1,903 dvds. Atlanta Police Dept. Fulton County
April 1, 2005 - Arrest of Fobbs Triandos in Manchester Ga. Recovered 1,500 CD-Rs and 483 dvds. Manchester Police Dept.
February 14, 2005 - Received correspondence from Dallas County : Gill Muse was given probation for an unspecified period of time and ordered to pay $1,830 in restitution to the RIAA. Muse was arrested in February 2004 with 541 pirate CD-Rs.
February 13, 2005 - Three vendors were observed selling pirated CD-Rs at the Trader's Village Flea Market in Grand Prairie, Texas. 2,133 CD-Rs were surrendered to RIAA for destruction. Approximately 75% of the product was Latin music and the remaining 25% Urban/Hip Hop. Grupo Montez, Vicente Fernandez, Usher, Alicia Keys and other popular artists were among those whose works were being pirated. Management of the flea market was notified and they subsequently banned the vendors from returning.
February 10, 2005 - The Atlanta Police Department and members of the FBI executed 2 search warrants, assisted by representatives of the RIAA. 68,000 CD-Rs and 27,000 DVDs were seized and two individuals were taken into custody.
Illinois
May 2005 - A confidential source informed Chicago Police that drugs, guns, and a CD manufacturing operation was located at a northwest side residence. Chicago PD, with the assistance of RIAA investigators executed a search warrant on the residence. Recovered from the search were 8 CD-R burners, several thousand burned CD-Rs, several hundred jewel cases & inserts, and spools of blank CD-Rs. (No guns or drugs were recovered.) All recovered CD-Rs were Latin genre. The arrested subject was previously deported as a convicted felon and is in this country illegally.
April 22, 2005 - Chicago Police arrested an individual who was selling counterfeit CDs which were displayed on a blanket on the sidewalk. At the time of arrest police seized approximately 300 illegal Latin CDs. RIAA investigators responded to the police station, examined the evidence, interviewed the suspect and signed complaints. The suspect stated he obtained the CDs from the Swap O Rama Flea Market.
Two Chicago street vendors were arrested after police assisted by RIAA investigators conducted a plain view seizure at a local Currency Exchange. After a tip from a confidential informant, several undercover buys were made at the location before police were contacted. Both vendors were charged with a misdemeanor. 104 counterfeit CD-Rs were seized.
Local police arrested a Chicago man after a routine traffic stop was affected and officers found illegal CDs and movie DVDs in his vehicle. The suspect was stopped for a traffic violation and failed to produce a valid driver’s license and insurance. Suspect was asked to step out of the vehicle and during an inventory search, officers found 260 illegal CDs and 120 movie DVDs. Suspect’s vehicle was impounded and he was transported to the 25th District for processing. RIAA investigators responded to the station to confirm evidence and sign complaints.
Louisiana
January 30, 2005 - After a 3 month investigation in New Orleans, agents from the FBI and the INS, assisted by RIAA representatives, executed a search warrant and seized 22,386 CD-Rs. This investigation is ongoing.
Massachusetts
April 5,2005 - the Northeast Office assisted the Boston, Ma. Police Department with a Search Warrant at Saints Dinner 572 Washington Street Dorchester, Ma. One individual arrested and 432 Pirated CD-R's (75% Urban and 25% Latin Music)
Maryland
April 2005 - A vendor from Baltimore was found guilty of one count of unauthorized sale. He received a $200 fine (no restitution). The vendor was arrested on 2/26/2004 after he was observed selling counterfeit CDs. 121 CDs were confiscated during the time of arrest.
April 2005 - A Baltimore man was convicted and sentenced to perform 50 hours of community service within 90 days. Baltimore City PD arrested the man on 7/15/2004 after they observed him in front of a liquor store selling counterfeit CDs. 62 CDs were seized during the arrest.
April 2005 - A street vendor from Baltimore pled guilty to one count of TNA. He received time served (he has been in jail since his time of arrest). Police arrested defendant on 3/3/2005 after police found 38 illegal CDs in his possession.
Michigan
May 2005 - A Detroit man was arrested and taken into custody after Detroit police observed him attempting to sell illegal CDs and DVDs. Police confiscated 295 CD-Rs from the vendor and 113 movie DVDs. An RIAA investigative consultant responded to the 10 th Precinct to interview suspect and sign complaints. An MPAA representative was also notified of the arrest and confiscation.
May 2005 - While initiating a routine traffic stop on a speeding vehicle, Detroit Police Officers observed numerous CDs and DVDs in the back seat while interviewing suspect. The driver was asked to step out of the vehicle as officers observed no copyright labels on the CDs. The driver was arrested and taken into custody. An RIAA investigative consultant responded to the 5 th Precinct and inventoried 722 counterfeit/pirated CD-Rs. MPAA was notified of the arrest and confiscation of 135 DVDs.
April 2005 - Local police arrested a Michigan man after a search warrant was served at his place of business. Following an anonymous tip, RIAA investigative consultants conducted an investigation on a Detroit car wash allegedly selling counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs. Investigators made several undercover buys from the car wash and informed the Detroit Police Dept. of the illegal activity. 530 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs, 389 counterfeit movie DVDs, one 8-tower CD/DVD duplicator, and 600 empty jewel cases were confiscated from the car wash.
April 2005 - A Michigan man was convicted and sentenced to 24 months probation and ordered to pay $3,134.04 restitution to the RIAA. The defendant was arrested on 2/11/2005 for selling and possessing 196 illegal CD-Rs.
New Jersey
April 2005 - A Camden, NJ man was convicted and sentenced to 3 years incarceration, as a result of an arrest on 5/19/2002 by the Camden Police Department. RIAA investigators made several undercover buys from the street vendor and informed the police of the illegal activity. 190 counterfeit CDs were confiscated at time of arrest.
New York
April 29, 2005 - 70 Pct NYPD executed a search warrant at 1102 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn NY ( Variety Store ) resulting in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of 4,429 pirated CD-R's and 908 movie DVDs.
April 26, 2005 - Newburgh PD conducted enforcement action at Original Flavaz, 398 Broadway, Newburgh, NY resulting in one arrest and the seizure of 777 pirated CD-Rs.
April 26, 2005 - The Newburgh PD conducted enforcement action at Urban Exchange II resulting in one arrest and the seizure of 1,600 counterfeit and 3,060 pirated CD-Rs.
April 25, 2005 - The NYO assisted members of the Bronx Task Force NYPD executed a search warrant at 4026 Baychester Ave Bronx NY, resulting in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of seven towers containing 54 (52X burners) 5,250 counterfeit CD-R's, misc raw materials i.e blank CD-R's, labels, trays, jewel cases. Music genre was approximately 70% Urban, 20% Latin, 10% Rock. Artists copied, Celine Dion, Tweet, Luis Miguel, Nelly, Christian Castro, Al Green, Jaheim
April 25, 2005 - The NYO assisted the Manhattan District Attorneys Squad in enforcement action in front of 29 W.36th Street, NYC resulting in two arrests and seized 1600 counterfeit/pirate CD-R's from a van in front of the location as they unloaded.
April 25, 2005 - The NYO assisted the NYPD Bronx Task Force and Manhattan District Attorney Squad in the execution of a search warrant at 29 W.36th Street, Room 409, NYC, resulting in the seizure of 14,600 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs, 1700 music DVDs and 5800 movie DVDs. No arrests were made inside the location.
April 8, 2005 - The Northeast Office assisted Albany Police Department in 5 search warrants at 5 different Retail stores in Albany, NY that resulted in: five arrests and seized 2,576 pirated CD-Rs.
April 06, 2005 - The New York Police Department’s 104th precinct, assisted by the Northeast Office, conducted a plain view seizure at All Star Player located at 55-46 Myrtle Ave in Queens New York. The police action resulted in one person arrested and charged with felony trademark offense. This police action resulted in seizure of 1058 pirated CD-Rs. The music seized was 25% Latin and 75% Urban. The following is list of artists on the unauthorized sound recording seized : Daddy Yankee, Tego Calderon,Jennifer Lopez, Frank Reyes,Juanes 50 cents, Jay-Z,The Game, and Usher
April 5, 2005 - The Northeast Office assisted Members of the NYPD 72nd Precinct in the execution of a Search Warrant at Santa Marta Records, 39-17 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York. Which resulted in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of 614 Pirated Molded Compact Discs. 100% Latin.
March 31, 2005 - The Haverstraw Police Department, assisted by the RIAA, conducted a plainview seizure at 50 Broadway Grocery Store located in Haverstraw, New York. The police action resulted in one person arrested and charged with misdemeanor trademark offenses. This police action resulted in seizure of 592 counterfeit/pirated Latin music CDs/ and music DVDs. The music seized was 100% Latin. The following is list of artists on the unauthorized sound recording seized : Daddy Yankee, Tego Calderon, Jennifer Lopez, Frank Reyes, Monchy & Alexandra, Aventura, and Juanes.
February 16, 2005 - The New York Police Department's 034 Precinct, assisted by the RIAA, executed a search warrant at AB Entertainment located at 330 Audubon Avenue in Upper Manhattan. The police action resulted in the arrest of one person for a misdemeanor trademark offense. This police action resulted in the seizure of 277 pirated CD-Rs, 30 pirated CDs and 88 DVDs. The music seized was 50% Latin and 50% Urban. The following is list of artists on the unauthorized sound recording seized : Daddy Yankee, Tego Calderon, Don Omar, Antony Santos Frank Reyes, Monchy & Alexandra, Aventura,Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Nelly and Eminem.
North Carolina
May 3, 2005 - The Pitt County Sheriff's Office (NC) arrested two subjects on multiple drug charges including possession of Crack Cocaine, Marijuana and Heroin. Also found in the defendant’s possession were 23 counterfeit CDs, 67 counterfeit VHS movies and 23 counterfeit DVDs
April 22, 2005 - The Pitt County Narcotics Task Force (NC) initiated a vehicle stop and found the driver to be James Kenneth Johnston. Johnston was found to be driving on a suspended license and had two outstanding warrants for Larceny an Assault on a female. Upon being arrested his vehicle was searched and he was found to be in possession of 77 Unauthorized Sound Recordings and 90 Counterfeit DVDs. The subject has a prior arrest involving counterfeit goods.
April 20, 2005 - The Durham Police Department (NC) seized a total of 465 unauthorized CDs and 960 unauthorized DVDs during an investigation into a local cell phone accessories retail store. Hasni Derrell Barrett was charged with 4 felonies pertaining to the seizure. This is the second bust of illegal recordings in the past two weeks.
April 18, 2005 - The North Wilkesboro Police Department (NC) detained a subject for selling counterfeit items at the Cattle Sale Flea Market. Upon further investigation Elrashid Ismail Mahadi was found to be illegal and is in the process of being deported to Sudan by ICE. Mahadi was in possession of 75 unauthorized sound recordings, 161 illegal DVDs, 941 bogus Nokia phone accessories, counterfeit Louis Vuitton and Prada hand bags and one counterfeit $20 dollar bill. Mahadi also possessed a North Carolina and Virginia ID.
April 18, 2005 - North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Agents seized a total of 64 counterfeit CDs and 69 counterfeit DVDs at the Rama Curb Market in Salisbury, NC. Siras J Ndadvas was charged with 1 felony count of unauthorized use and possession of recordings.
March 7, 2005 - Investigators for the Orange County Sheriff's Office and the North Carolina Secretary of State, assisted by the RIAA, followed up on information regarding a suspected pirate CD-R manufacturing location. This resulted in the seizure of 542 pirated CD-Rs, 72 DVD-Rs, and a tower containing 8 CD-R burners. The suspect admitted to manufacturing pirated CD-Rs for sale at the Buckhorn Flea Market. Criminal charges will be filed against the suspect for prosecution. All product seized consisted of Latin music.
February 13, 2005 - Rocky Mount Police, assisted by representatives of the RIAA, conducted seizures at the Wallace Flea Market in Wallace, NC. Two individuals were arrested, and 3,362 CD-Rs were seized.
Oklahoma
April 16, 2005 - RIAA investigators conducted voluntary surrender at El Mercadito in Tulsa, Oklahoma and surrendered 134 pirated sound recordings all of the Latin Genre.
April 16, 2005 - RIAA investigators conducted voluntary surrender at Jose Mini Mart in Muskogee, Oklahoma after receiving a complaint from retailer. 54 pirated sound recordings were surrendered all of the Latin Genre.
Pennsylvania
May 6, 2005 - An investigation by RIAA investigators resulted in the execution of a search warrant on Walnut Street in Philadelphia, PA. The Southwest Detectives of the Philadelphia Police Department arrested two individuals from the distribution location and seized 4,234 counterfeit CD-Rs and 210 music DVDs. MPAA was notified of the investigation prior to the search warrant.
April 4, 2005 - RIAA IC’s conducted an investigation on 52nd street in Philadelphia where they observed three males selling CDs out of their green & tan Pontiac. IC’s made an evidence purchase and determined that all three males were involved in the sale. With the aide of a Philadelphia Police Officer the three men were arrested and taken to the 18th district along with the vehicle involved. 2,425 pirated/counterfeit CDs, 30 music DVDs and 35 movie DVDs were recovered from the vehicle.
April 2005 - Deborah Robinson, Regional Counsel for the Central Region testified in Lebanon, PA at a restitution hearing stemming from a 6/2004 arrest by Pennsylvania State Police. The defendant was arrested with 1,432 counterfeit and pirate CD-Rs. The court ruled the amount of restitution requested was appropriate and awarded the RIAA restitution in the amount of $4,850. He also ordered mandatory employment for the defendant so that he can pay his restitution.
April 2005 - Philadelphia PD, Northwest Detective Division, with the assistance from RIAA investigators, and investigative consultants, executed a search warrant on several locations selling illegal CDs and movie DVDs. Three individuals were arrested including the main target of the investigation. Confiscated from the search warrants were 295 counterfeit/pirate CD-Rs, 4 (four) towers w/28 burners @ 52x speed, 2,150 inserts, 77 blank CD-Rs, and 75 black trays. A total of 2,750 movie DVDs were also confiscated. The target locations of the search warrants included a distribution location lab and two residencies.
South Carolina
April 29, 2005 - The Charleston Police Department (SC) arrested street vendor Terrelle Morton for distributing illegal CDs and DVDs. Upon arresting Morton a total of 1,695 counterfeit CDs and 405 counterfeit DVDs were found in his possession.
April 16, 2005 - 1,348 unauthorized CDs were voluntarily surrendered at the Anderson Jockey Lot in Anderson County South Carolina. Upon working on a tip provided from a Bad Beat Report, investigators seized product from four vendors. One of which was burning piratical articles on scene. The computer as well as the contraband was seized by the Anderson County Sheriff's Office with an investigation pending.
February 13, 2005 - In Easily, SC, Anderson County PD raided a retail store and seized 1,846 CD-Rs and arrested one person.
Texas
May 1, 2005 - The Arlington ( Texas ) Police arrested a street vendor outside La Mexicana grocery store. 894 pirated CD-Rs were seized, all of which were Latin music. Felony charges will be placed against the vendor.
May 1, 2005 - Patrol officers with the Dallas Police Department arrested a street vendor at 3140 E. Ledbetter, Dallas, TX and seized 2086 pirate CD-Rs and 1 Optodisc CD-R tower containing 7-52X CD-R burners. Subj. was charged with violation of Texas' TNA.
May 1, 2005 - The Arlington ( Texas ) Police arrested a street vendor outside La Mexicana grocery store. 894 pirated CD-Rs were seized, all of which were Latin music. Felony charges will be placed against the vendor.
April 29, 2005 - patrol officers for the Dallas Police Department arrested a street vendor at 9540 Lake June Rd., Dallas, TX for the sale of pirated CD-Rs and seized 808 pirate CD-Rs. Subj. was charged with violation of Texas' TNA. I-123-05-007
April 29, 2005 - The Pharr Police, in Pharr, Texas arrested an individual on unrelated warrants. During an inventory of the vehicle 2918 pirated CD-Rs were discovered. During follow-up investigation, consent to search a residence in Pharr was obtained. 5367 pirated CD-Rs were seized from this location. Also seized were 3 computers with 8 burners, a scanner/printer, and several hundred masters. The owner was arrested. This suspect is currently on probation for selling pirated music in 2004. Additional information provided led detectives to the Hidalgo flea market where a vendor was found selling pirate music. 1600 pirated CD-Rs were seized from the vendor. Approximately 90 percent of all the music seized was Latin. The three vendors will face felony charges.
April 22, 2005 - Members of the Houston PD, assisted by stringer Meisenhalder, arrested 2 street vendors at 15625 Post Oak, Houston, TX. 692 pirate CD-Rs were seized during the buy/bust. Meisenhalder gave affidavits to HPD for product.
April 17, 2005 - Three Voluntary Surrender Agreements were conducted at the Kleberg Flea Market in Dallas, Texas resulting in 1,091 pirated CD-Rs being surrendered. In addition, one vendor was served with a C&D letter. All product seized was Latin music.
April 16, 2005 - Four Voluntary Surrender Agreements were conducted at the Grand Mercado Flea Market in Austin, Texas resulting in 8,496 pirated CDs & 1,780 pirated CD-Rs being surrendered. All product seized was Latin music. The owner of the flea market was served with a C&D letter
April 8, 2005 - Lucrecia Garcia-Miranda(DRO-040231) pled guilty to one count felony violation of Texas TNA statute and was sentenced to five years probation
April 7, 2005 - A voluntary surrender was conducted at Sam's Dollar in Fort Worth, Texas 209 counterfeit CD-Rs were surrendered to RIAA Investigators. All items seized are of the Urban genre and consists of such artists as Mannie Fresh, Tupac, Nitty and Boyz II Men to name a few.
April 5, 2005 - Angel Cepeda pled guilty to a one county felony violation of the Texas True Name and Address statutE. Cepeda, a first time offender, was sentenced to two years probation and ordered to pay $1000 restitution to the RIAA.
March 29, 2005 - Members of the Houston PD arrested a street vendor during buy/bust in Houston, TX. 320 pirate CD-Rs seized. All urban genre.
March 28, 2005 - Patrol officers with the De Soto Police Department, stopped a vehicle at 1200 E. Wintergreen, De Soto, TX and arrested the driver for outstanding warrants. In the vehicle officers found what they believed to be 2233 pirate CD-Rs. The product was seized and the case was turned over to S/A Brian Hurst, FBI-Dallas, for investigation.
March 26, 2005 - The Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department seized 166 unauthorized CDs and 198 DVDs from a street vendor selling in the parking lot of a local retail establishment. The case is being presented to the District Attorneys Office.
March 26, 2005 - A voluntary surrender was conducteed at the New Flea Market in Houston, TX 500 pirate CD-Rs were surrendered to representatives of the RIAA.
March 25, 2005 - Members of the Dallas Police Dept. patrol division seized 419 pirate CD-Rs from a street vendor in Dallas, TX. Charges for violation of Texas' TNA will be filed at a later date. Genre was Urban.
March 24, 2005 - The Houston Police Department took criminal action at Mi Tepito Mercado. This action resulted in the seizure of 514 pirated CD-Rs and the arrest of one individual. The suspect was charged with a felony violation of Texas' True Name and Address Statute. All the product seized was Latin music.
March 13, 2005 - The Bexar Co. Sheriff's Office conducted a plainview seizure from Jorge Gamboa. Mr. Gamboa was found to be selling pirated music and movies in the parking lot of Culebra Super Meat Market #3 in San Antonio, Texas. 1367 pirated music CD-Rs & 243 pirated movie DVD-Rs were seized from Gamboa. Mr Gamboa faces felony charges for violating Texas' True Name and address statute. All music seized was Latin music.
March 13, 2005 - An investigation by the Bexar County Sheriff's Office in San Antonio, Texas, led to the seizure of 1,367 CD-Rs and 243 DVD movies. Felony charges will be placed against the individual. Approximately 50% of the music seized was Latin music.
March 12, 2005 - A vendor outside the Fiesta Bazaar in Dallas, Texas, voluntarily surrendered 550 CD-Rs to investigators for the RIAA.
March 12, 2005 – A street vendor selling pirate CD-Rs inside Tortas La Hechicera in Grand Prairie, Texas, voluntarily surrendered 591 CD-Rs to investigators for the RIAA.
March 11, 2005 – A vendor in the parking lot of the Mexican Consulate in Dallas, Texas, voluntarily surrendered 842 pirate CD-Rs to members of the RIAA.
February 19, 2005 - RIAA investigators conducted a voluntary surrender at Nacogdoches Trade Days in Nacogdoches, Texas and seized 581 pirated sound recordings from a vendor. All of the product seized was of the Latin music genre.
February 14, 2005 - Received correspondence from Dallas County : Gill Muse was given probation for an unspecified period of time and ordered to pay $1,830 in restitution to the RIAA. Muse was arrested in February 2004 with 541 pirate CD-Rs.
February 8, 2005 - Officers of the University of Texas at Arlington Police stopped a suspect for a traffic violation and subsequently the suspect was arrested for outstanding warrants. Search incident to arrest they seized 250 pirated CD-Rs as well as 20 DVD movies. Charges are pending for violating Texas Actual name and Address statute. Items seized are of the Rap and R&B genres and consisted of such artists as Snoop Dogg, John Legend, The Game and pre-release of Slim Thug "Already Platinum".
February 7, 2005 - Received correspondence from the Judicial District of Tarrant County. Silverio Sanchez pled out to a Class A misdemeanor and was sentenced to 24 months of probation and ordered to pay $1,600 in restitution to the RIAA. Sanchez was arrested Oct. 25, 2004, at Trades Day Flea Market in Forest Hill, Texas with 511 counterfeit CD-Rs in his possession.
February 5, 2005 - 362 pirated CD-Rs were surrendered from two vendors at Sunny Flea Market in Houston, TX. All product recovered was Latin music and contained works from Grupo Montez, Paulina Rubio, Luis Miguel and other popular Latin artists.
Utah
March 20, 2005 - 483 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 3 vendor in Midvale/West Valley, UT.
March 19, 2005 - 75 pirate CDs surrendered at retailer Midtown Discount Store via voluntary surrender/C&D action in Salt Lake City, UT.
March 19, 2005 - 62 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against street vendor in West Valley, UT.
March 19, 2005 - 170 pirate CDs surrendered at retailer Carniceria La Fiesta via voluntary surrender/C&D action in Magna, UT.
February 27, 2005 - 643 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 3 vendors in Salt Lake City, UT.
West Coast Busts
Arizona
April 24, 2005 - 600 pirate CDs and 14 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 2 vendors at Avondale Swap Meet in Phoenix, AZ.
April 24, 2005 - 536 pirate CD-Rs and 45 DVDs seized by Phoenix PD from husband/wife vendors at apartment complex in Phoenix, 2 felony arrests.
April 23, 2005 - 401 pirate CDs and 78 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at Glendale Swap Meet in Phoenix, AZ.
April 23, 2005 - 386 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 3 street vendors in Phoenix, AZ.
April 17, 2005 - 498 pirate CD-Rs seized by Phoenix PD from street vendor in Phoenix, AZ, vendor arrested.
April 17, 2005 - 134 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action at restaurant Santana Mexican Food in Phoenix, AZ.
April 16, 2005 - 937 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 4 street vendors in Phoenix, AZ.
April 7, 2005 - 200 pirate CDs and 41 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at La Carniceria Market in Phoenix, AZ.
April 6, 2005 - 151 pirate CDs and 92 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against catering truck vendor in Phoenix, AZ.
April 4, 2005 - 70 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against street vendor in Phoenix, AZ.
April 3, 2005 - 761 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 2 vendors at Avondale Swap Meet in Phoenix, AZ.
April 3, 2005 - 126 pirate CDs seized by Phoenix Police Department patrol officers, misdemeanor vendor arrest.
March 21, 2005 - 285 pirate CDs and 51 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor at swap meet in Glendale, AZ.
March 20, 2005 - 64 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor in Phoenix, AZ.
March 19, 2005 - 194 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against street vendor in Goodyear, AZ.
March 17, 2005 - 182 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor in Phoenix, AZ.
March 13, 2005 - 350 pirate CDs and 132 DVDs surrendered via C&D actions against vendor outside Osco Drugs in Phoenix, AZ.
March 13, 2005 - 569 pirate CD-Rs and 105 DVDs surrendered via C&D action against vendor outside Taqueria Guadalajara store in Phoenix, AZ.
March 13, 2005 - 239 counterfeit CD-Rs and 43 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor in Phoenix, AZ.
March 11, 2005 - 499 pirate CD-Rs and 96 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 2 street vendors in Phoenix, AZ.
February 27, 2005 - 731 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 3 vendors in Phoenix, AZ.
February 27, 2005 - 318 pirate CDs (and 808 DVDs) seized by Phoenix PD from vendor/distributor, felony arrest. (note: suspect identified as supplier to vendors involved in voluntary surrenders (731 pirate CDs) earlier in the day.)
February 27, 2005 - 87 counterfeit CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor at El Gran Mercado Flea Mkt, Phoenix, AZ.
February 20, 2005 - 952 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 4 street vendors in Phoenix AZ.
February 18, 2005 - 302 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 2 vendors in Phoenix AZ.
February 12, 2005 - 482 pirate CDs and 280 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in Phoenix AZ via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 3 vendors.
February 13, 2005 - 321 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in Phoenix AZ via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 3 vendors.
California
April 28, 2005 - 195 pirate CD-Rs and 177 DVDs seized by LAPD Foothill patrol officers from street vendor on piracy probation, felony arrest.
April 28, 2005 - 352 pirate CD-Rs and 6 DVDs seized by LAPD Newton Vice from retailer M.G. Music at El Faro Indoor Mall, owner arrested.
April 28, 2005 - 1,651 pirate CDs seized by LAPD Newton Vice from retailer Discoteca Contreras, both store clerk and owner arrested on felonies.
April 28, 2005 - 1,703 DVDs seized by LAPD Central Vice via search warrant at manufacturing residence, 8 burners also seized, location was DVD lab component re: CD and DVD piracy operation, LAPD surveillance burned before finalizing probable cause re: music location, 1 felony arrest, investigation ongoing re: music component. (note: RIAA initiated case.)
April 28, 2005 - 2,317 pirate CDs and CD-Rs and 1,464 DVDs seized by Santa Ana PD, felony arrest.
April 27, 2005 - 38 pirate CD-Rs seized by L.A. County Sheriff deputies in Lynwood, CA, 2 vendors arrested.
April 26, 2005 - 1,369 pirate CD-Rs and 321 DVDs seized by LAPD Central Vice at retailer Discoteca El Rebelde, owner arrested on felony.
April 26, 2005 - 127 pirate CD-Rs and 20 DVDs seized by LAPD Southeast patrol officers, vendor arrest.
April 26, 2005 - 91 pirate CDs and CD-Rs seized by LAPD Central Vice at retailer Elgo Records in L.A., store owner arrested.
April 25, 2005 - 938 pirate CD-Rs and 20 DVDs seized by LAPD Southeast patrol officers, vendor arrest.
April 25, 2005 - 590 pirate CD-Rs and 37 DVDs seized by L.A. County Sheriff's Antelope Valley station, vendor arrest.
April 24, 2005 - 1,158 pirate CDs and CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 4 vendors at Folsom Flea Mkt in Folsom, CA.
April 24, 2005 - 1,033 pirate CD-s seized by CHP officers in Redwood City, felony arrest.
April 24, 2005 - 1,133 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at Denio's Farmers Market in Roseville, CA.
April 23, 2005 - 453 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 2 vendors at Stockton Open Air Market in Stockton, CA.
April 23, 2005 - 309 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at Denio's Farmers Market in Roseville, CA.
April 23, 2005 - 471 pirate CD-Rs seized by Hayward PD from 2 street vendors in Hayward, CA, 2 arrests.
April 23, 2005 - 309 pirate CD-Rs and 234 DVDs seized by Fremont PD from vendor in Fremont, CA, felony arrest.
April 22, 2005 - 162 pirate CD-Rs and 191 DVDs seized by Pomona PD at retailer Todo 99 Cent Store, vendor arrested and subsequently pled guilty in court on 4/26 and sentenced to 3 years probation, 4 days county jail, restitution.
April 22, 2005 - Defendant Elias Zul, owner of Musica Latina in L.A., convicted on felony charges re: October 2004 seizure of 899 pirate CDs at store, sentenced to 3 years probation and $10,508 restitution.
April 21, 2005 - 220 pirate CD-Rs and 58 counterfeit CD-Rs seized by L.A. County Sheriff's deputies from vendor in Bassett, CA, vendor arrested.
April 20, 2005 - 776 pirate CD-Rs seized by Culver City PD officers from vendor with prior piracy conviction, felony arrest.
April 20, 2005 - 1,754 pirate CD-Rs and 2,000 DVDs seized by LAPD Central officers from vendor, felony arrest.
April 17, 2005 - 421 pirate CDs and 49 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 2 street vendors in Watsonville, CA.
April 17, 2005 - 838 counterfeit CDs and 49 DVDs seized by Watsonville PD officers from street vendor, felony arrest.
April 17, 2005 - 99 counterfeit CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against retailer El Mercadito De Fatima in Watsonville, CA.
April 17, 2005 - 193 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at Red Barn Swap Meet in Monterey County, CA.
April 17, 2005 - 1,671 pirate CDs and 84 DVDs seized by Monterey County Sheriff's from 2 vendors at Red Barn Swap Meet, 2 felony arrests.
April 16, 2005 - 488 pirate CD-Rs and 264 DVDs seized by LAPD Hollenbeck officers from 3 street vendors, 3 arrests.
April 15, 2005 - 580 pirate CDs and 37 DVDs seized by Ontario PD at retailer El Centenario Discoteca, store manager arrested.
April 15, 2005 - 46 pirate CDs seized by Riverside Sheriff's Dept. at retailer Jurupa Cellular, store employee arrested.
April 7, 2005 - 279 pirate CDs and 10 DVDs seized by Anaheim PD at retailer Ritmo Latona, 2 arrested.
April 7, 2005 - 200 pirate CD-Rs seized by San Diego PD from vendor inside Fam Mart indoor swap meet in San Diego, vendor arrested.
April 7, 2005 - 2,115 pirate CD-Rs and 5,175 DVDs seized by Inglewood PD from vendor and vehicle at Von's Supermarket lot, felony arrest.
April 7, 2005 - 12,217 pirate CDs, 70,000 inserts and 1,190 DVDs seized by CHP detectives at Fort Public Storage in Los Angeles, felony arrest.
April 6, 2005 - 50 pirate CD-Rs and 1,661 DVDs seized via search warrant by LAPD Vice detectives at residence in Los Angeles, also seized 2,400 inserts, printer/copier, and 20 CD/DVD-R burners. Felony arrest.
April 5, 2005 - 78 pirate CD-Rs and 54 DVDs surrendered at retailer Family Thrift Store via voluntary surrender/C&D action in West Hollywood, CA.
April 5, 2005 - Defendant Myra Hernandez, street vendor arrested in Nov. 2004 by LAPD, pled guilty and sentenced to 30 days community service, $815 fine.
April 4, 2005 - 197 pirate CD-Rs and 71 DVDs seized by Costa Mesa PD, vendor arrested.
April 3, 2005 - 1,006 pirate CD-Rs and 166 DVDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D actions against 4 vendors at swap meet in Winchester, CA.
April 3, 2005 - 2,072 pirate CDs and CD-Rs seized by Riverside PD from 2 vendors at Van Buren Swap Meet in Riverside CA, 2 felony arrests.
April 3, 2005 - 205 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary/C&D action against vendor at swap meet in Romoland, CA.
April 2, 2005 - 420 pirate CDs seized by LA County Sheriff Lennox patrol officers, misdemeanor arrest.
April 2, 2005 - 868 pirate CDs and 281 DVDs seized by Phoenix PD from vendor outside Carniceria Guerro Market, felony arrest.
April 1, 2005 - 126 pirate CDs and 42 DVDs seized by LA Sheriff Century detectives at Spot Music/Plaza Mexico Indoor in Lynwood CA, retailer arrested.
April 1, 2005 - 501 pirate CDs and CD-Rs seized by LA Sheriff Century detectives at Mariscos Nayarit Restaurant in Lynwood CA, vendor arrested.
April 1, 2005 - 125 pirate CD-Rs seized by LA Co. Sheriff Century detectives at Mariscos Nayarit Restaurant in Lynwood CA, vendor arrested.
April 1, 2005 - 354 pirate CD-Rs surrendered at retailer El Torito Meat Market in Mira Loma, CA via voluntary surrender/C&D action.
April 1, 2005 - 300 pirate CD-Rs and 54 DVDs surrendered at retailer Mercado Los Montes in Mira Loma, CA via voluntary surrender/C&D action.
April 1, 2005 - 1,308 pirate CD-Rs, 122 inserts and burner seized by LA Sheriff Century detectives at Lynwood Music/Plaza Mexico Indoor swap meet in Lynwood CA, felony arrest of store owner.
March 24, 2005 - 2,474 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 5 vendors in Oakland, CA.
March 23, 2005 - 666 pirate CDs and CD-Rs seized/abandoned by 3 vendors in L.A./Santee Alley.
March 22, 2005 - 1,027 pirate CDs and CD-Rs seized/abandoned by fleeing vendors in L.A./Santee Alley.
March 21, 2005 - 278 pirate CD-Rs and 938 DVDs seized by L.A. County Sheriff's Century officers from vehicle and manufacturing residence with 23 CD/DVD burners (4 towers total), label printer, computers, blank discs and other raw materials, felony arrest.
March 21, 2005 - 821 pirate CD-Rs seized/abandoned by fleeing vendors in L.A./Santee Alley.
March 21, 2005 - 609 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 3 vendors in Hanford ( Fresno area), CA.
March 20, 2005 - 1,129 pirate CD-Rs and 1,925 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 4 vendors in Wilmington, CA.
March 20, 2005 - 1,873 pirate CDs and CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 5 vendors.
March 20, 2005 - 237 pirate CD-Rs and 131 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor in San Pedro, CA.
March 18, 2005 - 502 pirate CDs and CD-Rs and 73 DVDs seized by L.A. County Sheriff's Lynwood patrol officers, misdemeanor arrest.
March 18, 2005 - 57 pirate CD-Rs and 289 DVDs seized by Chino, CA PD patrol officers, felony arrest.
March 18, 2005 - 365 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor.
March 17, 2005 - 1,051 pirate CDs and CD-Rs and 363 DVDs surrendered in greater metro L.A. via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 5 vendors.
March 17, 2005 - 681 pirate CDs and 125 DVDs seized by LAPD West Valley Vice, vendor arrested on felony charges.
March 16, 2005 - 198 pirate CD-Rs and 75 DVDs surrendered in South L.A. via voluntary/C&D action against vendor.
March 16, 2005 - 474 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 4 vendors.
March 15, 2005 - 46 pirate CD-Rs and 24 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 2 vendors in Huntington Park and Bell, CA.
March 15, 2005 - 167 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in South L.A. via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor.
March 15, 2005 - 123 pirate CD-Rs abandoned in downtown L.A./Santee Alley during attempted voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor.
March 14, 2005 - Local Law Enforcement Training @ Hayward PD, 9 officers assigned to detective squad.
March 14, 2005 - Local Law Enforcement Training @ Daly City PD, 6 officers assigned to patrol.
March 14, 2005 - 1,222 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 3 vendors.
March 13, 2005 - 181 pirate CD-Rs and 127 DVDs seized by Costa Mesa PD, misdemeanor vendor arrest.
March 13, 2005 - 675 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor.
March 13, 2005 - 884 pirate CDs and CD-Rs and 782 DVDs surrendered in greater metro L.A. via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 4 vendors.
March 12, 2005 - 200 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor in Riverdale/Fresno, CA.
March 12, 2005 - 935 pirate CD-Rs and 297 DVDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 2 street vendors in Fontana, CA.
March 12, 2005 - 622 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A./Santee Alley via voluntary surrender/C&D action against vendor.
March 11, 2005 - 472 pirate CD-Rs and 339 DVDs surrendered by vendor in Santa Ana via voluntary surrender/C&D action.
March 11, 2005 - 14 pirate CD-Rs and 35 DVDs surrendered at retailer Casa De Musica in Santa Ana via voluntary surrender/C&D action.
March 11, 2005 - 209 pirate CD-Rs and 20 DVDs seized from vendor by L.A. County Sheriff's Lennox patrol officers, misdemeanor arrest.
March 2, 2005 - 9,488 pirate CD-Rs seized via search warrant by LAPD Vice at manufacturing residence and distribution storage facility, 1 felony arrest. Also seized 3,641 DVDs, 5,813 CD inserts, 902 CD masters, copier, computer, 3 printers, and 35 CD/DVD burners (5 towers @ 7 each.)
February 27, 2005 - 560 pirate CD-Rs and 200 pirate CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 2 vendors in Mira Loma, CA.
February 27, 2005 - 615 pirate and counterfeit CD-Rs surrendered via VSA/C&D action against 2 vendors at Bel-Air Swap Meet in Bloomington, CA.
February 26, 2005 - 243 pirate CDs seized by LAPD Foothill Vice, 3 misdemeanor arrests.
February 26, 2005 - 1,271 pirate and counterfeit CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D at market and from vendor in Fontana, CA.
February 25, 2005 - 1,627 pirate and counterfeit CDs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D at Jaguar Records in Azusa, CA.
February 19, 2005 - 913 pirate CD-Rs seized by LAPD West Valley Vice, 1 misdemeanor arrest.
February 17, 2005 - 1,757 pirate CDs/CD-Rs seized by Stanislaus PD during self-initiated (post-riaa training) street vendor sweeps, 8 misdemeanor arrests.
February 17, 2005 - 90 pirate CD-Rs surrendered in downtown L.A. via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against vendor.
February 16, 2005 - 165 pirate CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D at La Colmenita market in North Hills, CA.
February 14, 2005 - 2,400 pirate CDs/CD-Rs seized from carnival vendor by LA Co. Sheriff's Industry Station, 1 felony arrest.
February 14, 2005 - 300 pirate CD-Rs seized by Montclair PD, 1 misdemeanor arrest.
February 13, 2005 - 1,318 pirate/counterfeit CD-Rs seized by Beaumont PD at Beaumont Swap Meet from 3 vendors, 3 misdemeanor arrests.
February 13, 2005 - 3,016 pirate CD-Rs surrendered at Winchester CA Swap Meet via voluntary surrender/C&D actions against 12 vendors.
February 13, 2005 - 1,547 pirate CDs/CD-Rs surrendered via voluntary surrender/C&D action against 13 vendors in downtown LA.