Overview

• Robert Lopez, 39, was arrested at his Hidden Valley Lake home after a search that uncovered tens of thousands of pieces and unopened sets.
• Police say he instructed local thieves to steal specific high-end sets from Target and Walmart, then bought the items at cut rates for resale.
• Investigators seized more than $6,000 in LEGO products along with a loaded handgun, a pump-action shotgun with a drum magazine, and an assault rifle.
• Lopez, a convicted felon, was booked into Sonoma County Jail on suspicion of organized retail theft, receiving stolen property, conspiracy, and firearm and ammunition possession.
• The monthlong investigation involved digital evidence review and retailer collaboration, and detectives are working to identify additional suspects and link the toys to specific stores.