Woman busted for allegedly selling fake items via Facebook

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — A woman is facing charges after the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office received complaints about someone selling counterfeit items in Whiteville.

Deputies arrested Carroll Ann Barnes Monday.

After receiving an anonymous tip, investigators went to the Big Lots parking lot. They say they saw Barnes meeting people to exchange items.

Investigators approached and found several totes and boxes with items inside.

They learned Barnes had an online business through Facebook and would order items such as Beats headphones, designer purses and more from overseas.

Investigators say the items were counterfeit. The NC Department of the Secretary of State Anti-Counterfeiting Task Force said the retail value of the 190 seized items was more than $18,500.

Barnes was charged with one felony count of criminal use of counterfeit trademarks.