[CRIMES] Locked In or Locked Out? The Tariff Case That Changed Everything

🎧 Host(s)

• Lalo Solorzano

• Andy Shiles

🎤 Guest

• Mollie Sitkowski – Partner at Faegre Drinker

📅 Published Date

March 26, 2026

⏱️ Episode Length

~36 minutes

🧠 Episode Summary

In this episode of Simply Trade [CRIMES], we dive into a real-world trade case that highlights what can go wrong when compliance breaks down.

Joined by trade attorney Mollie Sitkowski, Lalo and Andy unpack the details behind the case—what happened, where things went sideways, and what trade professionals can learn from it.

From regulatory missteps to enforcement realities, this episode goes beyond theory and into the practical consequences companies face when trade compliance isn’t handled correctly.

If you’ve ever wondered how small decisions can escalate into major legal and financial exposure—this episode is for you.

🔑 Key Learnings

• How real trade violations unfold in practice—not just in theory

• The role of intent vs. negligence in enforcement actions

• Common compliance gaps that can lead to significant penalties

• How customs authorities evaluate and pursue cases

• What companies should be doing to mitigate risk before issues arise

💡 Key Takeaways

• Trade compliance failures often start with small oversights that compound over time

• Documentation, classification, and internal controls are critical risk areas

• Enforcement is not just about penalties—it’s about accountability and precedent

• Having the right expertise (legal + compliance) can change the outcome significantly

• Learning from real cases is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your program

⚖️ Case Breakdown

• Overview of the case and key facts

• What triggered enforcement attention

• Where the compliance breakdown occurred

• Legal arguments and outcomes

• Broader implications for the trade community

🔗 Resources & Mentions

• U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT)

• Relevant customs regulations and enforcement frameworks

👏 Credits

• Hosts: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles

• Guest: Mollie Sitkowski

• Produced by Global Training Center

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🎙️ Want to Be on the Show?

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