Houston Crime Spree: Collectible Stores Hit as Thieves Target Pokémon Cards

Houston’s collectible retail community is grappling with a surge in burglaries targeting stores that specialize in rare trading cards, with Pokémon cards being the primary focus of these thefts. Once regarded as nostalgic playthings, these cards have surged in market value, attracting criminal elements eager to capitalize on their worth. Store owners have reported broken display cases and substantial inventory losses, often totaling tens of thousands of dollars in a single incident. Local authorities are intensifying their investigations and urging businesses to bolster their security protocols to combat this growing threat.

In response, many retailers have adopted enhanced security measures, such as:

• Installing advanced alarm and video surveillance systems
• Utilizing reinforced, lockable display cases with shatterproof glass
• Restricting access to high-value collectibles during non-business hours

Recent thefts predominantly involve ultra-rare cards, including graded editions and holographic variants. The lucrative resale market for these collectibles, often facilitated through underground channels, incentivizes even opportunistic criminals. Below is a breakdown of notable incidents reported in April 2024: