CBP Seizes Commercial Shipments Imported From China Through Identity Fraud

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently seized two shipments of radiators and dehumidifiers from China after learning they were imported using stolen identities.

CBP officers in Norfolk, Va., initially inspected both shipments, which originated in China, in mid-August. One shipment, destined to an address in Cheyenne, Wyo., contained 1,043 automotive radiators with a declared value of $5,775. The other shipment, destined for an address in Artesia, Calif., contained 420 high-capacity 70-pint dehumidifiers with a declared value of $10,080.

According to CBP, the actual combined value of the items was nearly $300,000. The dehumidifiers were appraised at $181,847, and the automotive radiators were appraised at $110,176.

Officers contacted both individuals listed as the importers of record for each shipment, and both denied ordering the items or operating businesses that import commercial goods. CBP officers determined both individuals were victims of identity fraud.

The shipment of radiators and the shipment of dehumidifiers were seized for violations related to the entry of goods by means of false statements. Investigations into both shipments remain ongoing.

“Legitimate businesses do not use the stolen identities of American citizens to import commercial goods,” said CBP Area Port Director Keri Brady, Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News. “Customs and Border Protection officers will continue to combat transnational crime by detecting and intercepting illicit shipments imported by nefarious business operators and working with our law enforcement partners to hold them accountable.”