Between 2017 and 2022, two individuals operated a professional fencing operation out of Auburn, Washington—systematically purchasing stolen high-value items, including power tools, electronics, and household goods, from shoplifters and reselling them through shell companies and an Amazon storefront.
Amazon collaborated with the U.S. federal agencies to build the case. Both defendants pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiracy to transport stolen property and money laundering. They now face significant prison sentences and forfeiture of millions in illicitly obtained assets.