Paris prosecutors are seeking prison terms for the leaders of a ring accused of making and selling fake handbags from iconic French luxury house Hermès, including some former employees.
The network, which targeted Asian tourists in Paris but also clients in Hong Kong in 2013 and 2014, was uncovered when French police wiretapped the home of a man suspected of selling stolen handbags in Asia.
An inquiry uncovered a clandestine operation in which the suspects, working at home, are alleged to have crafted dozens of counterfeit “Birkin” bags, the most coveted – and profitable – item produced by Hermès.Named for French-British actress Jane Birkin, the bags have long waiting lists for customers ready to pay €40,000 (US$45,000) or more for versions made with crocodile skin. Ten people went on trial last week, including seven former Hermès employees.
Prosecutors said they took in around €2 million a year by selling the fakes for €20,000 to €30,000 (US$22,000 to US$33,000) each.
The former Hermès workers would make the bags with crocodile skins from an Italian supplier, using zips and other components smuggled out of Hermès workshops.
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A woman now aged 52, born in Cambodia but living in France since 1980, was tasked with selling the fake bags as well as genuine “Birkins” resold to clients at a mark-up.
She told investigators her clients knew that they were buying fakes, the court heard.
One of the employees, accused of orchestrating the counterfeiting ring, was just 18 when he began working at Hermès.
“At the time, I didn’t realise the seriousness of this,” the now 45-year-old told the court.
As the trial wound up on Friday, prosecutors sought prison terms of up to four years and fines of €100,000 to €200,000 for the three ringleaders, and suspended sentences and fines for the others.
Hermès lawyers have also asked for €2 million in damages.
