Introduction to the Case
A former Miami Heat security worker and retired Miami police officer, Marcos Thomas Perez, has pleaded guilty to transporting and transferring stolen goods in interstate commerce. This guilty plea comes after an FBI investigation into a massive memorabilia theft involving millions of dollars’ worth of game-used jerseys and other items.
Background on the Defendant
Perez, 62, is a retired 25-year veteran of the Miami Police Department. He worked for the Heat from 2016 to 2021 and also worked as an NBA security employee from 2022 to 2025. During his time with the Heat, Perez had access to a secured equipment room at the Kaseya Center, where he stole over 400 game-worn jerseys and other items. These items were intended for a future Miami Heat museum.
Details of the Theft
Over a three-year period, Perez sold over 100 stolen items for about $2 million, often at prices well below market value. One notable example is the sale of a game-worn LeBron James Miami Heat NBA Finals jersey for approximately $100,000. The same jersey later sold at a Sotheby’s auction for $3.7 million, highlighting the significant undervaluation of the items sold by Perez.
Perez’s actions were first reported by NBA insider Amin Elhassan on "The Dan Le Batard Show" last month, describing it as one of the largest memorabilia heists in the history of sports in the country.
Investigation and Arrest
On April 3, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Perez’s home, seizing nearly 300 additional stolen game-worn jerseys and memorabilia confirmed by the Heat to have been stolen from their facility. Perez’s defense attorney, Robert Buschel, stated that any items in Perez’s possession were taken by the FBI and that people who obtained the other items are being asked to return them.
Plea and Sentencing
Perez appeared in federal court, where he changed his plea from not guilty to guilty. His sentencing date is set for October 31, where he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, three years of probation, and a fine of up to $250,000. Buschel hopes the judge will consider Perez’s history as a good person and his exemplary service as a police officer in the City of Miami.
Conclusion
The guilty plea by Marcos Thomas Perez marks a significant step in the resolution of the massive memorabilia theft involving the Miami Heat. The case highlights the importance of security and the trust placed in individuals with access to valuable items. As Perez awaits sentencing, the focus will be on the restitution of the stolen items and the impact of his actions on the sports memorabilia community.
FAQs
- Q: What was Marcos Thomas Perez charged with?
A: Perez was charged with transporting and transferring stolen goods in interstate commerce. - Q: What items did Perez steal?
A: Perez stole over 400 game-worn jerseys and other items intended for a future Miami Heat museum. - Q: How much did Perez sell the stolen items for?
A: Perez sold over 100 stolen items for about $2 million. - Q: What is the maximum penalty Perez faces?
A: Perez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, three years of probation, and a fine of up to $250,000.
