Officials Seize Wood Materials At Gibson Guitars

Posted:

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Law enforcement officials raided a Gibson manufacturing plant in Nashville after allegations the company has been illegally importing endangered wood from West Africa.

Federal agents confiscated items Tuesday afternoon. They raided Gibson's Massman Road plant and its headquarters on Plus Park Drive.

No charges have yet to be filed.

Gibson officials said they're cooperating with Fish and Wildlife agents on the investigation.

They released this statement:
"Gibson is a chain of custody certified buyer who purchases wood from legal suppliers who are to follow all standards . . . Gibson Guitar Chairman and CEO sit on the board of the Rainforest Alliance and take the issue of certification very seriously."

Gibson manufactures acoustic and electric guitars. The company also makes pianos through its Baldwin brand.