Philip Morris Sues - Counterfeit Marlboros

Philip Morris USA will sue over counterfeit cigarettes. The nation's largest tobacco company accuses 10 New York and New Jersey retailers of selling counterfeit Marlboro cigarettes in the federal lawsuit that was filed late last week. They have now filed lawsuits against a total of 27 stores this year in the two states in an effort to defend their brand.ABC News reports, "Philip Morris is asking the court to ban the retailers — small grocery stores and delis — from purchasing, distributing or selling counterfeit Marlboro cigarettes. It also is asking for companies to turn over their profits from the illegal cigarettes, along with punitive damages and attorney's fees."
In a move certain to raise the ire and interest of cash starved governments, Philip Morris "alleges that in addition to selling products with bogus branding, the state and federal taxes were not properly paid on the cigarettes," a report from NJ Biz adds.
The company added that both New York and New Jersey are areas rife for counterfeit tobacco products due to the high taxes levied against each product. An Associated Press story notes, "in New York City, a pack of Marlboro cigarettes can cost more than $10."