Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with a series of thefts targeting collectibles stores in southeast Calgary last summer. The stolen trading cards were valued at more than $87,600, according to police.
Details of the Thefts
Between July 14 and September 7, 2025, four separate break-ins occurred at three southeast Calgary businesses. The targeted stores were Olympic Sports and Games, Celly Sports Games, Eastridge Sports and Games, and First Player Card Shop. In each incident, two to three suspects used power tools and pry bars to force entry, causing thousands of dollars in property damage.
The largest single theft took place on August 11 at Eastridge Sports and Games, where over $72,000 worth of trading cards were stolen. At one location, the thieves were unable to gain entry but still caused significant damage to the premises.
Investigation and Arrests
Following a months-long investigation, Calgary police arrested Alston van Wezel, 48, and Brent Norris, 63. Van Wezel faces charges including one count of mischief to property under $5,000, three counts of disguise with intent, two counts of breaking and entering, and two counts of possession of stolen property. Norris is charged with one count of mischief to property under $5,000 and one count of disguise with intent. Both are scheduled to appear in court on June 22.
Police believe the suspects used stolen vehicles in the crimes, which were abandoned after each incident. Investigators were able to recover many of the stolen cards and locate the vehicles used.
Const. Garret Dawson of the Calgary Police Service emphasized the seriousness of the crimes: "The thieves in these cases did far more than simply steal some collectible cards. They took valuable merchandise from small business owners while also stealing vehicles and destroying property. These were serious crimes and we were determined to catch the people responsible."
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are asking anyone with additional information to come forward.
