A Phoenix trading card shop is reeling after thieves broke in and made off with roughly $70,000 worth of Pokémon cards, just over a month after the store's grand opening. Crown Cards co-owner David Kim says the loss cost the business years of work and pieces of his own children's childhood.
The shop is near 107th Avenue and Indian School Road. Its grand opening was six weeks before the break-in, meaning it had been open to the public for only about six weeks.
Surveillance footage shared by the owners shows the burglary was no solo job. Four people were involved — three who went inside the shop and a getaway driver who waited outside in a white pickup truck, per the store's post in the Pokemon Arizona Facebook group. That same post announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
What Suspects Could Face Under Arizona Law
Entering or remaining unlawfully in a commercial building with intent to commit theft is third-degree burglary under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1506, a Class 4 felony.
Part of a Bigger Pattern Hitting Card Shops
Crown Cards is far from alone. SFGATE has reported on rising Pokémon card values, security risks and thefts targeting card shops.
The case has involved community assistance and surveillance footage. The investigation is ongoing, and with a reward on the table, the owners are hoping the cards — and some justice — eventually make their way back home.
