Cops in the Detroit area are currently searching for two hammer-wielding masked thieves who carried out a series of heists targeting collectible Pokémon cards at two local stores earlier this month. The thieves struck both stores in the early morning hours before they were open, causing significant damage to one of the establishments by smashing the glass displays showcasing the valuable cards.
The first incident occurred on May 16 at RIW Hobbies & Gaming in Livonia, where the duo, dressed in all black with full face coverings, broke in around 5 a.m. Store owner Pam Willoughby arrived later that morning to find her glass cases shattered and the Pokémon cards missing. Surveillance footage revealed the two perpetrators smashing the display cases with a hammer, grabbing the cards, and fleeing the scene with their loot.
Willoughby estimated that the thieves caused $12,000 in damages between the store and the stolen cards. She suspects that the stolen cards may have been intended for sale at the Motor City Comic Con, which coincidentally began on the same day as the break-in.
A few days later, on May 20, the thieves targeted Eternal Games in Warren, where they once again stole more Pokémon cards in a similar manner. This time, the suspect hopped over the display case, filled a sack with cards, and made a quick escape. The store reported a loss of $3,500 worth of rare singles, which are difficult to replace.
Unfortunately, the stolen cards may never be recovered, leaving store owners worried about the possibility of becoming the next victims of these Pokémon bandits. This is not the first instance of criminal activity surrounding Pokémon cards, as incidents of violence and chaos have been reported in the past.
In a separate incident in January, a brawl erupted at a Costco in Los Angeles over the sought-after cards, resulting in physical altercations between customers. Similarly, a man dressed as Spider-Man was arrested in northern Virginia for breaking into a store and stealing rare Pokémon cards while wearing his costume to conceal his identity.
Despite the challenges faced by the trading card industry, including tariffs impacting the market, the demand for Pokémon and other collectible cards continues to rise as investors seek alternative investment opportunities. With the industry valued at over $15 billion as of 2024, the allure of these cards remains strong among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
