Washington: A 32-year-old man was arrested for allegedly stealing Lego sets worth $10,000 from a Washington state toy store.
Burglary Incident
Deputies from Pierce County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary at Sasquatch Bricks in University Place. The crime occurred at 5:00 a.m. last month when a suspect used a U-Haul to break in. A 911 caller reported that the man loaded the truck with stolen Lego sets.
By the time officers reached the store, the suspect had already escaped.
Investigation Begins
Authorities launched a month-long investigation to track down the suspect. Their search led them to a storage unit just a mile away from the toy store.
Police obtained a probable cause warrant and searched the unit last Thursday. They found the suspect unconscious inside a car parked near the storage shed.
Suspect Confronted
Officers approached the suspect and instructed him to exit his vehicle. When he refused, an officer smashed the driver’s side window. Another officer pulled the man out of the car and arrested him.
The suspect has a long criminal history, including past offenses related to property crimes and illegal weapons.
Stolen Items Recovered
During the storage unit search, police discovered Lego sets hidden in the rafters. They also found firearms, illegal drugs, digital scales, and small baggies.
Authorities charged the suspect with multiple offenses, including possession of stolen property in the first degree.
Additional Charges
He was also charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and possessing a stolen firearm. Police added drug-related charges, including possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
The suspect faces an additional charge for obstructing law enforcement officers during his arrest.
Suspect’s Status Unknown
Authorities have not released the suspect’s name or further details. It remains unclear whether he is in custody or has posted bail.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case.
