Cohen Statement on Gibson Guitar Investigation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN-9) today issued a statement on the pending Gibson Guitar investigation in Memphis, Tennessee. In August, federal authorities searched Gibson Guitar in Memphis for illegal sawn ebony and rosewood used for fingerboards.

“Some residents of the Memphis area have approached me about their concerns over the Gibson investigation. Although I cannot interfere with an ongoing investigation, I will work to ensure that it is completed as quickly as possible. I met with Gibson Guitar CEO Henry Juszkiewicz last year to discuss a variety of topics but he did not ask me to help him. Since then a warrant was executed and an investigation was started but we cannot get involved because it is an pending investigation. Neither Mr. Juszkiewicz or anyone from Gibson has approached me concerning this issue since last year. Ethically, unless there are indications of the federal authorities showing any signs of misconduct, we must let the process take its course. Gibson has long been a staple of the Memphis community and provides our city with good jobs. It is important that there is a quick resolution to the case,” said Congressman Cohen.