Authorities found thousands of dollars’ worth of pilfered trading cards at the San Bernardino County residence of the man, leading them to make an arrest.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department identified the suspect as Victorville resident Thomas Dillon Ripley, 45. Deputies were called to the 19201 Bear Valley Road Target in Apple Valley on July 23 in response to reports of a shoplifter.
Ripley was being held by store security after it was reported that he had stolen baseball cards valued about $300. Deputies placed him under arrest and then released him with a citation to appear in court.
Detectives looking into retail theft carried on their investigation. At Ripley’s residence in the 12800 block of Riverview Drive in Spring Valley Lake, a search warrant was executed on August 8.
Deputies found more pilfered cards inside, including expensive sports playing cards that were estimated to be worth $2,100.
Investigators added that Ripley would allegedly put a phony barcode on items to drastically lower the price in order to steal the cards. After making the purchases, he would discreetly exit the store.
Grand theft and burglary led to Ripley’s arrest. After posting bond, he was freed to make his court appearance later.
Authorities have observed that a large number of items offered for sale on reseller websites like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, Poshmark, and others might be stolen goods.
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“These products are often sold at discounted prices and seem appealing,” SBSD stated. “Purchasing on these sites can lead to increased costs in stores as companies attempt to recover losses.”
Investigations into the theft are still ongoing. 760-240-7400 is Deputy Vallejo’s number with the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station; 760-956-5001 is Sheriff’s Dispatch.
We-Tip accepts anonymous tips by phone at 1-800-782-7463 and online at wetip.com.
