TROY, N.Y. -- Five Troy residents were arrested following an eight-month investigation into the trafficking of counterfeit items in the Capital Region.

On May 15, state police executed search warrants at four locations in Troy. They seized five vehicles, business and financial records, over $6,000 in cash, and several hundred counterfeit handbags and jewelry valued at about $50,000.

The investigation revealed Susan and William Minahan had been running a business called "Finds & Treasures by Susan," which sold counterfeit purses and jewelry. On several occasions, undercover officers bought items that were claimed to be Rolex watches, Tiffany jewelry, and handbags by various designers.

State police said the Minahans were assisted by Nancy Degnan, Kathleen Bowman and Janet Harder and held a "Pocketbook Party" business that sold thousands of counterfeit items to local residents. They said Minahan had been illegally purchasing her merchandise from street vendors in New York City.

The Minahans are accused of laundering more than $350,000 through personal bank accounts.

The following arrests were made:

• Susan and William Minahan - charged with trademark counterfeiting 2nd and money laundering 4th, arraigned in Troy City Court with bail set at $25,000.


• Janet Harder - charged with trademark counterfeiting 2nd, arraigned in Troy City Court with bail set at $25,000.


• Nancy Degnan - charged with money laundering 4th, arraigned in Troy City Court with bail set at $25,000.


• Kathleen Bowman - charged with money laundering 4th, issued an appearance ticket.