Hundreds of stolen toys seized from Richmond, B.C., home: police

A large haul of stolen Lego and plush toys recovered at a home in Richmond, B.C., represents far more than child's play, RCMP say. 

The recovered items — including toys and clothing valued at over $150,000 — illuminate what police describe as the "dark corners of the retail theft sector."

A 46-year-old man from Richmond has been arrested in connection with the seizure of over 1,000 allegedly stolen items and released on conditions, RCMP said Thursday in a release. 

The detachment's property crime unit began investigating after receiving tips from the public about potentially stolen items being sold online. 

Officers found the stash on Feb. 29 while executing a search warrant.

"There are many enthusiasts from both the Lego and Jellycat communities that are guided by ethical and lawful guidelines," said Sgt. Russel Yugai. 

"We wish to thank those enthusiasts as well as the other concerned members of the community who assisted us in this investigation."

Yugai said the seizure illustrates the popularity and resale value of stolen items.

Rampant toy theft 

Joanna Mileos, owner of the Granville Island Toy Company, which operates two toy stores in Vancouver, says theft in toy shops, is "rampant." 

She says about three to five per cent of her shop's inventory is stolen every year. 

"Some things you manage to figure out right away and some things you don't find out until they come out in the wash in your year-end inventory count," said Mileos. 

Mileos said she can see why Lego and Jellycat toys were targeted by thieves, as they are in high demand. 

"It makes me happy to hear that people realized what was going on and reported this guy," she said. "Hopefully he gets more than a smack on the wrist."