New details released on investigation into Westfield counterfeit sports memorabilia scheme

WESTFIELD, Ind. -- New details are emerging as Westfield police continue to investigate a counterfeit sports memorabilia scheme that experts are describing as "the biggest this industry has ever seen."




On Thursday, the Westfield Police Department provided additional information related to its ongoing investigation into Mister Mancave LLC, a business that allegedly sold counterfeit items via its online store and through other platforms.

The investigation began in February when a woman based in North Carolina filed a report stating she received fraudulent merchandise from the company. The case quickly developed as police identified additional victims who each claimed to have purchased autographed memorabilia from Mister Mancave LLC.




On July 15, detectives executed a search warrant at the business in the 16800 block of South Park Drive. The next day, police showed up at a residence in the 300 block of Hoover Street to conduct another search related to the investigation.




This led to the discovery of Brett Lemieux's body, who they identified as the primary suspect in the case after confirming he was the founder of Mister Mancave. In the home, Lemieux was found dead from "an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound." He was 45 years old.




As officers searched his home and business, they reported finding a significant quantity of new evidence.








In the update, WPD confirmed that it "was aware of a social media post made by Mr. Lemieux shortly before his death, in which he gave specific details and named other individuals who may have been involved."




"This will require additional time to carefully review and investigate all evidence and leads," WPD said. "We are working with various authenticators for technical assistance and the authentication of all seized items."




This remains an active and ongoing investigation, according to the department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation is assisting.





via: https://fox59.com/news/new-details-released-on-investigation-into-westfield-counterfeit-sports-memorabilia-scheme/