Two suspects have been arrested in connection with a massive retail theft operation involving thousands of dollars worth of stolen LEGO toys.
The suspects were identified as Richard Siegel, 71, of Long Beach, and Blanca Gudino, 39, of Lawndale, according to Los Angeles police.
In December 2023, detectives were alerted to a series of thefts at a Target store located in the 1700 block of North Gaffey Street in San Pedro.
Loss prevention officers identified Gudino as the suspect involved.
On June 4, police observed Gudino stealing LEGO products from Target stores in Torrance and Lakewood. She then dropped off the merchandise at Siegel’s home in Long Beach.
The next day, a search warrant was served at the Long Beach home, where officers discovered more than 2,800 boxes of stolen LEGO toy sets.
Photos of the massive bust show countless rows of LEGO boxes stored on shelves that took over the living room like a warehouse.
Most of the stolen toys were collectibles or more expensive sets. The individual retail value of each item ranged from $20 to more than $1,000, the LAPD said.
Among the stolen sets were Star Wars collectibles, Ninjago, Harry Potter, Technic vehicles, LEGO Architecture, Marvel, Minecraft, pop-culture special editions and much more.
One of the stolen items even appeared to be a demonstration box housed in plexiglass typically displayed in a store.
While investigating Siegel’s residence, police saw potential toy buyers arriving at the house, led by advertisements Siegel had posted online.
Siegel was arrested for organized retail theft and Gudino was arrested for grand larceny.
The incidents are still under investigation.
This seizure follows similar thefts targeting Bricks & Minifigs stores throughout Southern California.
During these incidents, the thieves broke into several stores before escaping with approximately $100,000 worth of LEGO toys.
Anyone with information about the case can call Harbor Area detectives at 310-726-7900. The public can also call the LAPD at 1-877-527-3247.
Anonymous tips can be provided to LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers by texting 274637. All text messages must begin with the letters “LAPD.”