The Poke Court
Federal authorities have taken a major step in the investigation into a brazen robbery that shook the Pokemon card community, arresting an alleged getaway driver linked to the theft of more than $116,000 in rare Pokemon cards from a Manhattan trading card shop.
Police arrested Julio Caseres Colina, 27, on January 21 in connection with the armed robbery that targeted The Poke Court in New York City’s Meatpacking District on January 14. Prosecutors say Caseres dropped off three masked accomplices near the shop during a crowded community event, waited roughly seven minutes, and then drove them away after the crew smashed display cases and loaded up high-value Pokemon cards.
Customers in the store also had guns pointed at them during the wild situation.
Investigators allege Caseres also served as the driver in a January 9 theft in Queens, where approximately $11,700 worth of merchandise and about $1,000 in cash were stolen from another store.
In exchange for his role, Caseres allegedly received gas money and items, including batteries and women’s clothing, which he later sold for profit. His claim that he was unaware of the crew’s plans is being treated by prosecutors as an attempt to minimize his involvement.
Alleged getaway driver in Pokemon card heist charged
Caseres has been charged in federal court with Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy and aiding and abetting Hobbs Act robbery, offenses that carry significant prison exposure if convicted. At this stage, no other arrests have been reported in connection with the card heist.
Instagram/ThePokeCourt
The January 14 incident wasn’t a typical smash-and-grab. Three masked suspects stormed The Poke Court during a “top loader decorating” event with about 40 people inside and made off with rare cards featuring characters like Charizard and Pikachu. While no injuries were reported, surveillance footage captured the rapid, chaotic raid.
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In the weeks since, the shop has navigated both recovery and a brand overhaul, rebranding itself as The Trainer Court after Nintendo raised concerns over its original name and logo. The community response has been strong, with fans and collectors showing widespread support for the store amid a spike in card-related thefts nationwide.
Prosecutors plan to decide whether to present the case to a grand jury. As of now, the search for the remaining suspects continues, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
