In a surprising display of courage and quick thinking, a mall store employee in Santa Ana, California, recently averted a significant theft. The would-be thieves had targeted a collection of Pokémon cards valued at approximately $2,700. As their attempts to steal and flee were thwarted, the event sheds light on the growing value and demand for such collectible items.
The daring incident unfolded at the MainPlace Mall, where the two culprits walked into an Anime store. Their objective was clear – a set of prized Pokémon cards. “We don’t believe the confrontation happened inside the store, the confrontation happened outside once the employee saw them run from the store,” Sgt. Maria Lopez of the Santa Ana Police Department told KTLA.
Security video shows store employee beat down thieves who tried to steal Pokémon cards worth $2,700 https://t.co/WN4FxYJECW
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As per the available surveillance footage, it became evident that the bold employee had taken matters into his own hands. Upon spotting the thieves running from the store, he engaged in a pursuit that quickly turned physical. The video showcased a struggle between the employee and the suspects on a bridge outside the mall, leading to the suspects dropping the coveted Pokémon cards and fleeing the scene.
The police arrived too late to apprehend the duo, but not without getting a good description of them. According to the Santa Ana Police Department, one of the suspects was a Hispanic male around 5 feet 6 inches tall, thinly built, with shaved black hair, brown eyes, and a mustache. The other suspect was a white male, standing 6 feet tall, with a thin build, black hair, and brown eyes.
Despite the audacious attempts of the culprits, the store employee’s actions reflected a dedication to his duties, even when they included facing off against criminals. This incident also highlights an unexpected trend – the rising black-market value of Pokémon cards. Initially a Japanese role-playing game, Pokémon has become a global phenomenon over the years, spreading to television shows, movies, and the lucrative market of card games.
The actions of this quick-thinking employee deserve appreciation, not just for the courage shown in the face of danger but also for highlighting the importance of vigilance in our everyday work environment.
It’s high time that we recognize the role of such brave individuals in our society and take proactive steps to ensure their safety.
