Former Miami Heat Security Officer Accused of Major Theft
In a striking case of betrayal, a former security officer for the Miami Heat, 62-year-old Marcos Thomas Perez, stands accused of orchestrating a multi-million dollar theft of valuable memorabilia from the team. The charges, brought forth by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), reveal that over 400 items, including a LeBron James jersey from the 2013 NBA Finals, were pilfered from the team’s facilities. According to reports, the stolen jersey fetched an astounding $3.7 million at auction, representing one of the largest memorabilia thefts in U.S. history, as noted by NBA analyst Amin Elhassan on “The Dan LeBatard Show”.
Perez’s Background and Access
Perez served as a security officer with the Heat from 2016 until 2021, later continuing his career with the NBA until 2025. His extensive experience also included a 25-year tenure with the Miami Police Department. This background gave him trusted access to a secure equipment area in the Heat’s arena, where game-worn jerseys and other collectible items were stored in anticipation of future display in an unreleased museum project, according to the DOJ’s statements.
The Theft and Its Discovery
The shocking details of the theft came to light on Tuesday when Perez appeared in federal court to face charges related to the transportation and sale of stolen goods across state lines. Allegedly, a significant number of these stolen items were sold online at prices that often fell well below their market value.
Among the notable pieces stolen was James’ iconic jersey from Game 7 of the 2013 NBA Finals, which he wore as he clinched the championship for the Heat and earned the Finals MVP title.
Following its theft, the jersey was resold for $100,000 before ultimately becoming part of a legitimate Sotheby’s auction, where it achieved the eye-watering price of $3.7 million, making it one of the highest-priced game-worn jerseys ever sold. Only a Michael Jordan jersey from the 1998 NBA Finals and Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” jersey have sold for more at auction.
Ongoing Investigation
A search conducted at Perez’s home on April 3 led to the recovery of nearly 300 additional jerseys and pieces of memorabilia, all verified to have been stolen from the Miami Heat. While the FBI continues its investigation into this remarkable heist, the DOJ has not disclosed the potential penalties that Perez faces if he is found guilty. Currently, the Miami Heat organization has chosen not to release further comments regarding the incident, leaving fans and the public eager for more details about this unsettling breach of trust.
