In a real-life story that feels like it belongs in a thrilling crime novel, Texas law enforcement has successfully taken down a highly organized criminal network involved in the theft of LEGO toys. This case serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly innocent toys can become the focus of serious criminal activity.
Have you ever considered the possibility that criminals could find value in the scattered bricks your kids left on the floor, which can be extremely hazardous to walk on barefoot?
Police have recently discovered an operation that spanned across multiple states, involving the theft and subsequent resale of high-value LEGO sets. The suspects specifically targeted major retail stores and stockrooms in their criminal activities.
According to a report from KETK, in October 2022, a Department of Public Safety trooper made a traffic stop and discovered 19 new Cricut electronic cutting machines in the back of a vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested for an unrelated warrant. The authorities were able to trace the machines back to the Walmart they were allegedly stolen from. Subsequently, a search warrant was obtained for the driver’s phone.
Gentry purportedly engaged in text conversations with the driver with the intention of purchasing the Cricut machines at a discounted rate. However, upon further investigation, it was revealed that Gentry was allegedly selling these items on eBay and Amazon.
Gentry received assistance from Brian Fleming, a man from Lancaster, who played a crucial role in his endeavors. Together, they collaborated in providing Amazon with numerous invoices for items sourced from Fleming.
The Smith County Jail, located in the heart of town, stands as a formidable structure, holding within its walls the individuals who have been deemed unfit to remain within society. Its imposing presence serves as a constant reminder of the consequences that await those who choose to cross the line of law and order. With its high walls and secure perimeter, the jail serves as a symbol of justice and acts as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers. As the sun sets on the sleepy town, the lights within the jail flicker to life, casting an eerie glow on its surroundings. The residents of Smith County go about their daily lives, comforted by the knowledge that the jail stands as a guardian of their safety and security.
Fleming, along with another individual, was captured on video in a Walmart Lego aisle, where they proceeded to purchase a number of affordable items. After Fleming left the store, other members of the group arrived and selected the same quantity of items from the Lego aisle.
According to reports, customers would exit the store without buying the Legos and if stopped, they would show a modified version of Fleming’s receipt. The altered receipt would supposedly include the Legos and their accurate prices, although the SKU number would still correspond to the original items Fleming had purchased.
The Toy Retailers Association has unveiled the 2018 DreamToys for Christmas.
The theft ring targeted various Walmart and Target stores in Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Texas. These stores included locations in Longview, Tyler, Kilgore, and Gun Barrel City.
Fleming and Gentry face charges of participating in organized criminal activity and stealing property valued at over $300,000. Currently, Fleming is in custody at the Smith County Jail with a bond set at $1,100,000. On the other hand, Gentry was incarcerated at the Smith County Jail on November 21 but was released the following day, November 22.
