Coach, a leading marketer of handbags and accessories, has launched a national anti-counterfeiting program targeting companies and individuals involved in the distribution or sale of counterfeit products. "Operation Turnlock' will pursue all infringers, no matter how big or small, through civil litigation in state and Federal courts.

Integral to this strategy is the enforcement of Coach's intellectual property rights against counterfeiters on the Internet. The campaign will closely monitor mainstream auction venues, as well as independent websites, to identify sellers of counterfeit Coach product and will seek the removal of such counterfeits.

In anticipation of this initiative, Coach has filed more than 50 civil suits within the past six months in states including New York, California, Florida, Georgia, and throughout the Midwest.

The zero tolerance program will target everyone involved in trafficking counterfeit goods, including large wholesale operations, small businesses, internet sites, purse party operators, street vendors and flea markets selling Coach counterfeit product.