Former West Covina Resident Admits to Fraud in Memorabilia Scheme
In a case that has drawn significant attention, Anthony Tremayne, a 58-year-old former resident of West Covina, California, has pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud related to a counterfeit memorabilia operation. This fraudulent activity spanned nearly a decade, from 2010 to 2019, and involved the sale of approximately $250,000 worth of fake sports and entertainment items.
A Decade of Deception
Tremayne orchestrated a scheme that involved the sale of forged memorabilia, primarily targeting sports items associated with Los Angeles athletes. According to federal prosecutors from the Central District of California, Tremayne not only created and sold counterfeit autographs but also employed accomplices to produce forgeries. He provided these associates with images of genuine signatures to aid in their efforts.
The Scope of the Fraud
Beyond sports memorabilia, Tremayne’s fraudulent activities extended to music and political autographs. One high-profile item involved a fake photo from the reality television show “Keeping Up With the Kardashians,” complete with forged signatures from several cast members. This specific piece was sold to an undercover FBI agent, leading to Tremayne’s arrest in 2019.
False Authenticity
Compounding his deceit, Tremayne issued counterfeit certificates of authenticity with the memorabilia sold to customers. This element of his scheme further misled buyers about the legitimacy of their purchases.
Financial Impact and Legal Consequences
Federal authorities estimate that Tremayne’s operation generated between $250,000 and $550,000 through the sale of these fake items. He now faces significant legal repercussions, with the potential for a prison sentence of up to 20 years set for his sentencing on August 11.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of counterfeit memorabilia in the sports and entertainment industries, underscoring the need for vigilance among collectors and fans alike.