Chicago Man Charged in Armed Robberies Targeting Pokémon Cards

Suspect allegedly used Facebook Marketplace to lure victims before robbing them at gunpoint

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:08am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a Pokémon trading card with a handgun pointed at it, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A recent wave of armed robberies targeting Pokémon card sellers exposes the risks of in-person transactions for high-value items sold online.Chicago Today

A 23-year-old Chicago man named Anthony Garcia has been charged with multiple counts of armed robbery after police say he targeted people selling Pokémon cards online and robbed them at gunpoint in the Gage Park neighborhood over several days in March.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks of in-person transactions for high-value items sold online, as well as the potential for repeat offenders to continue committing crimes despite prior arrests.

The details

According to authorities, Garcia allegedly used Facebook Marketplace to arrange meetups with people selling Pokémon cards, lured the sellers into building lobbies, then pulled out a handgun and robbed them. He then fled the scenes on foot. Police say Garcia has a criminal history, including prior arrests for retail theft and armed robbery.

  • The robberies took place over several days in March 2026.
  • Garcia was arrested on Tuesday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Anthony Garcia

A 23-year-old Chicago resident who has been charged with five counts of armed robbery with a firearm for allegedly targeting people selling Pokémon cards online.

Chicago Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Garcia and is investigating the string of armed robberies.

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What’s next

Garcia is currently in custody, and his bond status has not been disclosed. The Chicago Police Department says additional charges could be possible as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for caution when conducting in-person transactions for high-value items sold online, as well as the challenges of addressing repeat offenders and ensuring public safety in the digital marketplace.