Burbank, California – A quiet night at LA Sports Cards turned into a high‑stakes robbery when a group of thieves broke into the shop around 2 a.m. Friday, stealing more than $100,000 worth of trading cards. The burglary was captured by a security camera that recorded the perpetrators breaking through the front door on Olive Avenue. Police say the thieves knew exactly where to look, targeting the Pokémon section first before moving on to other valuable items. The shop owner, Kit Nguyen, has been left scrambling to assess the damage and protect the remaining inventory.
The Heist
Security footage showed two masked individuals entering through the main entrance, bypassing the shop’s alarm system with a key that matched the lock. Once inside, they quickly moved to the back shelf where the Pokémon cards are displayed. The camera captured them moving large boxes and bags toward the exit. Police say the burglars left the shop within twenty minutes, taking only a few minutes to load the stolen items into a vehicle parked outside. The rapid escape suggests they had a pre‑planned route and knowledge of the store’s layout.
Targeting Pokémon
According to Nguyen, the thieves’ first stop was the Pokémon section, indicating they had a clear goal. “They started with the Pokémon side,” Nguyen told reporters, pointing out that the shop’s most sought‑after items are often easy to move and resell. Nguyen added that the Pokémon cards were “beloved by all age categories,” making them a prime target for collectors and resellers alike. The shop owner believes the burglars were familiar with the layout and the high‑value items that attract attention in the trading‑card market.
Stolen Loot
Police recovered a few high‑value cards, including rare Kobe Bryant and Cristiano Ronaldo trading cards that had been displayed in the shop’s premium section. Nguyen noted that the burglars also took several other Pokémon cards that were in the shop’s most valuable category. While the exact list of stolen items remains confidential, the shop owner emphasized that the loss included both collectible and certified cards, some of which carried serial numbers. The combination of rarity and condition makes these cards especially valuable to collectors and investors.
Owner’s Perspective
Nguyen, who has owned LA Sports Cards since 2010, expressed frustration at the loss and the breach of trust. “It’s really hard to identify one person’s ownership versus another’s,” Nguyen said, citing the proliferation of serial‑numbered cards that complicate provenance. He added that the sheer number of cards in circulation makes them “easy, and no questions asked,” which he believes is why the thieves targeted the Pokémon side. Nguyen said he would take steps to improve security and prevent a repeat of the incident.
Card Value
Nguyen explained that trading cards can range from a few cents to millions of dollars, depending on unique features, edition, popularity, condition and rarity. He noted that some cards are even serial‑numbered and certified, adding to their value. “It’s really hard to identify one person’s ownership versus another’s,” he repeated, highlighting the challenges collectors face in proving authenticity. The high‑value cards, especially those with limited editions or rare signatures, are particularly sought after by collectors and can command premium prices on secondary markets.
Police Estimate
Police estimates that over $100,000 worth of trading cards were stolen in the burglary. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Authorities have asked the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the suspects. The police are also working to locate the stolen cards, which are likely to be sold on online marketplaces or in private transactions. The shop’s insurance company has been notified and is assessing the claim.
Security Upgrades
Nguyen said he is stepping up security measures to prevent future incidents. The shop will install a new alarm system, additional surveillance cameras, and a reinforced door lock. He also plans to work with local law enforcement to conduct a security audit of the premises. Nguyen emphasized that the shop’s priority is to protect the inventory and reassure customers that their purchases are safe. He believes that increased vigilance and better technology will reduce the likelihood of another break‑in.
Impact on Business
The theft has left LA Sports Cards scrambling to rebuild its inventory and reassure patrons. Nguyen said that many customers have expressed concern over the safety of their collections. The shop’s reputation as a trusted source for rare cards has been challenged, but Nguyen is determined to restore confidence. He plans to offer special promotions for customers who have suffered losses and to provide insurance guidance for valuable items. The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of small businesses to targeted theft in the trading‑card market.
Community Response
Neighbors and fellow card dealers have offered support, with several offering to share security footage from nearby businesses. Nguyen thanked the community for their solidarity, saying the incident has brought a renewed focus on collective safety. Local law enforcement has pledged to allocate additional resources to the investigation, and a reward has been announced for information leading to the arrest of the suspects. The incident underscores how interconnected the trading‑card community is, with each shop relying on the others for vigilance.
Conclusion
Police continue to investigate the break‑in, while shop owner Kit Nguyen works to secure the premises and rebuild trust. The $100,000 theft underscores the need for robust security in the trading‑card industry, especially for small‑size businesses that often serve as hubs for collectors. The incident serves as a reminder that even well‑established shops can fall victim to sophisticated thieves. As investigators pursue leads, the community watches for any signs that the stolen cards might be recovered or that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.
