Two Stores Closed and Multiple Arrests Made as Investigation Continues

By Kiernan Manion

An ongoing investigation into the purchase and distribution of stolen military goods by the NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service), has shut down two Army Navy surplus stores so far, and have led to criminal charges and a shock to the industry.

“There’s an ongoing investigation of theft of military equipment from…military bases around the country, and as part of that we served a couple of search warrants,” said Ed Buice, a spokesman for the NCIS.

According to the warrant from the first NCIS raid, two U.S. Marines have been arrested while breaking into a building on a Marine base in North Carolina.

NCIS set up surveillance on the building after over $350,000 worth of tents, cold weather gear, stoves, boots, uniforms, and other military equipment were stolen by the two men between September 15 and October 18 this year. Over that period of time, there were an estimated four burglaries, with the men being caught during the fifth break-in.

It was then determined that the purchase of declared stolen goods, valued at close to $75,000, was arranged with a military surplus business. As part of the continuing investigation, a number of texts, emails, phone conversations, and other resources were used to track down the purchase and sale of these stolen goods. It has even been noted in court documents that undercover agents and confidential informants are involved in the investigation.

In a separate instance, police and NCIS conducted a second raid on another surplus store, confiscating nearly $750,000 worth of stolen goods, which authorities believe could be connected to the Marine base thefts mentioned above. It was even noted that the truck brought by authorities was barely large enough to transport the amount of stolen goods back as evidence.

Current and pending charges so far include corrupt organization, receiving stolen property, and dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, as stated in court records.

Some of the equipment referenced in the investigation are the sort of thing you would always expect to find on the shelves and displays of surplus stores across the country: “Primarily, some camouflage clothing, uniforms, boots, that sort of thing; although, we did find some knives and other associated gear also,” Buice says.

This widespread risk involved in conducting business with military equipment and products is prevalent with every purchase for wholesalers and retailers, and with these stores being closed and owners being charged, now more than ever, extra care is necessary in how business is conducted in the Army Navy surplus industry.

“The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are expected,” adds Buice.