06 Aug 2025, 15:42
Former Miami Heat security guard charged with massive memorabilia theft
- Markus Peres is accused of stealing over 400 jerseys.
- About 300 stolen items were recovered during the investigation.
- LeBron James' jersey was sold for $100,000.
This is reported by NBC News, Marca.
/ Source: NBC South Florida
Former security guard of the Miami Heat, Markus Thomas Peres, 62, has been charged with stealing memorabilia, which includes game jerseys and other valuable items. According to the authorities, Peres illegally sold the stolen items on online marketplaces, earning nearly $2 million.
Peres worked for the Miami Heat from 2016 to 2021 and also served as a security guard for the NBA from 2022 to 2025. During this time, he had access to a restricted room at the Kaseya Center, where jerseys designated for the team's museum were stored.
During the investigation, which took place on April 3, the authorities recovered nearly 300 stolen jerseys and other memorabilia. Peres sold over 100 stolen items at prices that were often below market value to quickly dispose of the merchandise.
Among the stolen memorabilia was LeBron James' jersey, which he sold for $100,000; however, at an auction held by Sotheby’s, this jersey previously sold for $3.7 million.
Peres appeared in federal court for the first time in the afternoon.
Tags: USA/Crime/Sport/Basketball