Uncovering a Massive Theft Ring
In a significant crackdown, Oregon police have recovered more than $200,000 worth of stolen Lego sets, exposing a large-scale theft operation involving the popular toy.
Three-month investigation
The Springfield police revealed on Tuesday that a three-month investigation had led them to Brick Builders, a store located on Willamette Street in Eugene. The store owner was found to be “knowingly” purchasing new, unopened Lego sets stolen from nearby retailers.
According to police, thieves stole hundreds of dollars’ worth of Lego sets from local stores and sold them to Brick Builders for cash. The investigation uncovered that the thieves received only a fraction of the retail value of the Lego sets, with much of the money allegedly used to buy drugs.
On July 3, officers executed a search warrant at Brick Builders, resulting in the recovery of 4,153 Lego sets valued at over $200,000. Interviews with suspects indicated that Brick Builders’ staff were aware the Lego sets had been recently stolen.
The Springfield Police Department collaborated with loss prevention investigators from major retailers such as Target, Fred Meyer, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart. This cooperation confirmed that the Lego sets purchased by Brick Builders were indeed stolen from their stores.
Legal actions and statements
The suspects involved have been charged with organized retail theft and theft by receiving. Reached for comment, the owner of Brick Builders referred NBC News to his attorney, who did not immediately respond.
“We all feel the impact of organized retail theft through the increasing cost of items we buy for our families,” said Police Chief Andrew Shearer. “Recognizing this, SPD’s Crime Reduction Unit, with the support of our retail partners, works diligently to hold accountable those who make the choice to engage in or support retail theft.”