The operator of a Miami luxury store, Yuri Rafael Velázquez García, aged 33, was taken into custody alongside Mayrelis Márquez Plans, 32, over allegations of distributing counterfeit luxury items, including brands like Louis Vuitton. Authorities estimate the fake goods would have been worth over $500,000 if genuine.
Social media platforms are buzzing with images of famous Cuban personalities posing in the store prior to the arrest. Among them are reggaeton artists Dany Ome and José Ángel El White, formerly of Cubanito 2002. These photos depict them with Velázquez, who has been identified as the store's owner.
Pictures shared on the store's Instagram account (@yuri_fashion_house) and Velázquez's personal profile reveal popular Cubans visiting the establishment, which later became the focus of a police operation in Miami.
The investigation, according to the police report, was initiated in July after an officer noticed Instagram posts featuring a Miami Gardens home showcased as a Louis Vuitton outlet. This location was linked to Velázquez. After months of surveillance, undercover purchases were made, acquiring bags and clothing allegedly worth thousands for only a few hundred dollars in cash. A Louis Vuitton expert confirmed the items were counterfeit.
During a raid on the premises, authorities seized over 500 counterfeit items, including handbags, shoes, clothing, and accessories. Both individuals were taken to jail, with bail set at $5,000 each.
The circulating images with Cuban celebrities have sparked discussions online, highlighting the close connections some entertainment figures had with the store now under scrutiny.
Questions Surrounding the Counterfeit Luxury Goods Bust
What prompted the investigation into the Miami luxury store?
The investigation began when a police officer noticed Instagram posts of a house in Miami Gardens being advertised as a Louis Vuitton store, leading to further scrutiny.
Who are some of the Cuban celebrities involved in the controversy?
Cuban reggaeton artists Dany Ome and José Ángel El White, formerly of Cubanito 2002, were among those photographed at the store before the arrests.
How much were the counterfeit goods valued at if they had been real?
The counterfeit items would have been valued at over $500,000 if they were genuine luxury products.