SEATTLE — A 54-year-old pretending to be a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe was sentenced to two years of probation and 200 hours of community service after selling fake Native American art.
Lewis Anthony Rath from Maple Falls pleaded guilty to violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. For over a year, Rath sold the fake art pieces to Seattle retail stores.
During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Tana Lin read aloud the letter from San Carlos Apache Tribe chairman Terry Rambler. In the letter, he underscored the harm caused to the 17,000 tribal members by Rath's misappropriation.
In a court statement, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tate London also added, "Rath’s victims are real: they are Indian artists, many who struggle to make a living, who lost out on sales to those who seek authentic Indian artwork; and they are also consumers who were defrauded into purchasing fake Indian art.”
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the investigation began in July 2019 after a complaint was made to the Indian Arts and Crafts Board. Undercover agents were sent to the Pike Place Market gallery and bought a carved totem pole and necklace for over $1,334. Both the artist's biography at the shop and on websites used to sell pieces claimed Rath was Native American.
Agents also recovered feathers from protected birds at Rath's house during a federal warrant execution. He also pleaded guilty to violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in March 2023.
"His actions also undermine consumers’ confidence in the Indian art market in the Northwest and nationwide." said U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Arts and Crafts Board Director Meridith Stanton in a statement, "...Mr. Rath is being held accountable and the message is clear. For those selling counterfeit Indian art and craftwork, it is important to know that wherever you are we will diligently work to find you and prosecute you under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act."