Florida man accused of using chainsaw to steal $12K worth of Pokémon Trading Card Game cards

Police say the suspect cut through a hurricane-proof window before escaping with thousands in rare Pokémon cards

A Florida man has been arrested after allegedly using a chainsaw to break into a collectibles store and steal thousands of dollars worth of Pokémon Trading Card Game cards in a bizarre overnight burglary.

According to authorities, 33-year-old Clayton Warren is accused of targeting Collection Realm in Lake Park, Florida, during the early hours of May 21. Surveillance footage reportedly showed the suspect first attempting to smash the store’s hurricane-resistant front window with a rock before switching tactics and using a battery-powered chainsaw to cut through the glass.

Investigators said the suspect eventually carved a triangular opening into the window and entered the store, where roughly $12,000 worth of Pokémon cards were allegedly stolen. The stolen items reportedly included sleeved collectible cards and bulk inventory.

Police also revealed that blood was found at the scene during the investigation, which helped authorities connect evidence tied to the break-in.

Store surveillance allegedly showed a man matching Warren’s description visiting the shop just days before the burglary, where he reportedly spent hours browsing merchandise.

Investigators later tracked down a vehicle connected to the suspect using license plate reader technology. Authorities eventually arrested Warren at a West Palm Beach residence after obtaining a search warrant.

He now faces charges including burglary of an unoccupied structure and grand theft involving property valued between $10,000 and $20,000.

The incident quickly gained attention online due to the unusual use of a chainsaw and the growing black-market demand surrounding Pokémon cards. In recent years, retailers and collectors have dealt with thefts, scams, parking lot fights, and even organized sting operations connected to the booming trading card market.

Collection Realm later thanked supporters on social media, saying they were grateful no one was injured during the frightening break-in.