Perez had access to the memorabilia stored in a secured equipment room at the Kaseya Center, which was designated for a future Heat museum.

Multiple agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Miami Police, are involved in the investigation, confirming that the items were stolen from the Heat’s facility.

NBA insiders are stunned by the scope of the theft, which represents a significant breach of security and trust within the league.

Perez, a 62-year-old security officer for the Miami Heat and later the NBA, stole over 400 game-worn jerseys and more than 100 valuable items, including a LeBron James jersey that sold for around $100,000 and was auctioned for over $3 million, between 2016 and 2021.

He appeared in Miami federal court, changed his plea to guilty, and faces up to ten years in prison at his October sentencing hearing.

This case underscores broader concerns about security breaches and theft within the professional sports industry, which involves billion-dollar franchises.

Law enforcement efforts are ongoing to recover the stolen items and hold those responsible accountable, highlighting the significant resale value of stolen sports memorabilia.

Perez’s attorney emphasized his remorse and good character, noting his long service as an officer and describing the theft as an unfortunate mistake.

The theft has tarnished the Miami Heat’s legacy, with the FBI actively tracing the stolen items as the franchise seeks to recover its history.