A resurgence in the popular 1990s Pokémon Trading Card Game and a dip in the economy has triggered an increase in thefts at hobby stores, says one owner. “The tougher the economy gets, or the more heightened awareness there is around collectibles and how liquid they are, it gets a lot harder to protect your shop,” said Leduc Hobby Hole owner Luke Crisby. Crisby’s shop was looted of Pokémon cards over the weekend. Standing in front of a case with $80,000 worth of hockey cards, Crisby said the thief didn’t even glance at it. “He went straight to the Pokémon display cases.” The price of Pokémon cards varies, with some worth $50 to $100 and others ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. “Pokémon is like a pandemic in the world right now and in such high demand and short supply,” said Crisby, adding that they are still trying to reconcile their numbers to determine how much was stolen, but estimate about $80,000 worth. Because Pokémon cards are largely untraceable, unlike hockey cards that have serial numbers, it will be hard to track down the stolen property, he said. RCMP are currently investigating the theft that occurred just after 4:30 a.m. on July 11. “Whoever it is that broke into this business did have a specific target if they were going past certain items and going for a specific item,” said Const. Sandra Geiger. “With regards to that … if you are a business owner, you are likely aware of which things are going up in value, and to be able to put items into locked cases, so make sure you’re protecting them.” But securing the shop and locking the Pokémon card in a display case didn’t stop the thief. “Desperate people will always find a way to get inside if they’re going through a tough time or addictions are involved,” said Crisby. In an effort to prevent further thefts, Crisby said the store will be moving and that they will have a security guard on-site 24/7. “Security is the number one thing on your brain. Budget comes second,” said Crisby. “Truthfully, security comes first in this industry.” With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Noah Rishaug
