FBI raids BG sports collectibles shop - 13abc.com Toledo (OH) News, Weather and Sports

FBI raids BG sports collectibles shop

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A sports collectable shop in Bowling Green was packed Friday but not with customers, it was packed with FBI agents.

That raid happened at Spindletop Sports Zone which is located inside the Woodland mall.  The owner of the store, Richard Schmidt was taken into custody on a firearms violation.  Schmidt has a previous felony conviction.

13abc cameras were rolling while what seems like over a dozen agents, including the Evidence Response Team, inspected hats, jerseys; all kinds of collectibles.

"I was shocked, I didn't know what was going on.  It was kinda crazy seeing the FBI right there in Bowling Green," said customer Wendy Solether. 

"My oldest son told us to come here cause there might be some good gifts to get for my youngest son and then you walk in and I don't know how many agents are in there but it seems like quite a few," said customer Mickey Shank. 

Customers were kept away throughout the afternoon.  An FBI spokeswoman tells 13abc that Schmidt is suspected of trafficking in counterfeit goods and services.

"Just Christmas shopping trying to get a few last minute presents for the kids and the next thing you know there are barriers there.  Try to walk in next thing you look up and see the FBI there," said Shank. 

The raids were not contained to inside the store.  Several trailers outside the store were also combed by agents.  Exactly what was taken out of these trailers is not clear. 

Schmidt's home on Marlow road in Toledo was also raided by agents.  People familiar with the mall tell 13abc that Spindletop has been there for several years.  The owner moved it out a couple of years ago, and then moved it back.

To this point Schmidt has not been charged in connection with counterfeiting.

Agents seized seven boxes of Winchester ammunition, parts for two assault rifles and at least seven high-capacity magazines. Court records show Schmidt is a convicted felon and barred from possessing firearms. He was convicted of manslaughter in Lucas County in 1990.

 

 

 

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