A 33-year-old West Palm Beach man faces burglary and grand theft charges after allegedly using a chainsaw to break into a Florida collectibles store and steal thousands of dollars worth of Pokémon cards.
Clayton Warren was arrested by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office following an overnight burglary at Collection Realm in Lake Park, Florida. The store owner contacted authorities on May 21 to report the break-in.
Chainsaw Used to Cut Through Hurricane-Proof Window
Surveillance footage captured a man using a battery-powered chainsaw to cut a triangle-shaped opening into the store’s hurricane-proof front window, according to the arrest report. Blood was left at the scene during the break-in attempt.
The suspect initially tried to break the window using a rock before resorting to the chainsaw, investigators said.
The store owner reviewed surveillance video and estimated that approximately $12,000 worth of Pokémon cards were stolen from the business. The theft included both sleeved cards and bulk bonus cards.
Suspect Identified Through Surveillance and License Plate Reader
Investigators reviewed additional surveillance footage that showed a man matching Warren’s description had visited the store two days earlier on May 19.
Authorities used a license plate reader system to track down a vehicle captured on surveillance cameras near the store. The vehicle was registered to an address in West Palm Beach.
Deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence and arrested Warren at the home.
Charges Filed
Warren is charged with burglary of an unoccupied structure and grand theft greater than $10,000 but less than $20,000. Both charges are felonies under Florida law.
The case highlights the growing value of collectible trading cards, which have seen significant market appreciation in recent years. Pokémon cards, particularly rare and well-preserved editions, can command high prices among collectors.
What Comes Next
Warren will face prosecution in Palm Beach County courts. If convicted on both counts, he could face substantial prison time under Florida’s theft and burglary statutes. The investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is complete, and the case will now proceed through the court system.
The store owner will need to repair the damaged hurricane-proof window and work with insurance providers to recover losses from the theft.