Owner of Bricks and Minifigs Franchise Indicted in Multi-State Scandal
SPRINGFIELD, IL — September 12, 2024.— The owner of a Bricks and Minifigs franchise outlet in Springfield, Illinois, was indicted today on federal charges of wire fraud and money laundering. The scandal, which has sent shockwaves through the collector community, centers on allegations that the defendant knowingly accepted and sold stolen rare LEGO sets, including thousands of counterfeit Minifigures, between January 2022 and August 2024. Authorities say the operation defrauded collectors and toy enthusiasts nationwide out of an estimated $2.3 million by exploiting the franchise’s reputation for authenticity. The defendant, 47-year-old Marcus Thorne, entered a not guilty plea this afternoon.