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LA Brothers' Charges Dropped In Fake Apple Case

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A Los Angeles judge has dismissed a case against two brothers who were accused of participating in a smuggling ring that authorities say brought millions of dollars of fake Apple products into the U.S.

Los Angeles County district attorney's spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons said Friday that prosecutors asked for charges to be dropped against 40-year-old Edward Zahab and his 45-year-old brother, Bahram Zahab.

The two LA men were arrested in February and accused of possession for sale of counterfeit Apple goods worth about $280,000. Gibbons says the charges were dismissed in the interest of justice, though the investigation is ongoing.

She didn't know if prosecutors plan to refile charges.

Attorney Mark Hathaway said in a statement he commends the decision to toss the case. He says the brothers run a legitimate electronics business.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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