Former Miami Heat Security Officer Pleads Guilty to Stealing $1.9 Million in Team Memorabilia, Including a LeBron James Jersey Worth $3.7 Million

A former security officer for the Miami Heat has admitted guilt in a federal court to transporting and transferring merchandise worth millions, according to the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Florida. Marcos Tomas Perez, 62, pleaded guilty at a hearing on Tuesday, acknowledging his involvement in the case.

Perez served with the NBA team from 2016 to 2021 and subsequently with the league from 2022 to 2025. During his tenure with Miami, he was part of the security detail team on game days at the Kaseya Center, home to the Heat.

Court documents reveal that Perez gained access to a secured equipment room containing valuable memorabilia multiple times, stealing over 400 game-worn jerseys and other items intended for a future Heat museum. Perez subsequently sold these items to online brokers.

Among the stolen merchandise were more than 100 items, valued at approximately $1.9 million, which were shipped across state lines, often below fair market value. One particular LeBron James NBA Finals jersey was sold for nearly $100,000 and later auctioned off by Sotheby’s for $3.7 million, according to the court documents.

In April, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Perez’s residence and recovered close to 300 more game-worn jerseys and memorabilia. The Heat confirmed that these items were missing from the arena.

Perez, who retired as a 25-year officer from the City of Miami Police Department, is set to be sentenced on October 31. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

Attorney Robert Buschel, representing Perez, expressed hope that the judge would take into account Perez’s previous life and career as a respected police officer when sentencing. Buschel stated that Perez made unfortunate decisions but is prepared to accept responsibility for his actions.

The Miami Heat declined to comment on the matter.