Fresno Man Sentenced for Stealing $1K in Pokemon Cards

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A 31-year-old Fresno man, Michael Ryan Baker, was sentenced to four years in state prison for stealing $1,000 worth of Pokemon cards from a gas station in Visalia, California and threatening employees with a weapon during the robbery.

Why it matters

The case highlights the growing trend of criminals targeting collectible items like Pokemon cards, which can be valuable and in high demand. It also underscores the need for businesses to have strong security measures in place to deter and respond to such crimes.

The details

According to court records, on April 25, 2025, Baker walked into a gas station on Dinuba Boulevard in Visalia and stole $1,000 worth of Pokemon cards, estimated at 100-120 packs. When confronted by employees, Baker lifted his shirt in a threatening manner as if he had a weapon. After a brief chase, employees saw Baker had parked his car directly behind the store with the trunk open. Baker fled the scene but was arrested two days later after being identified through surveillance footage.

• On April 25, 2025, Baker stole the Pokemon cards from the gas station.
• On October 6, 2025, Baker pleaded no contest to felony second-degree robbery with a prior serious felony conviction.
• On February 27, 2026, Baker was sentenced to four years in state prison.

What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision could set a precedent for how similar crimes involving collectible items are handled in the future.