Fresno Man Arrested in Armed Robbery of Pokémon Cards from Visalia Store
VISALIA, CA — A Fresno man has been arrested in connection with the armed robbery of a Visalia convenience store, during which a display case containing Pokémon cards was stolen.
On Friday, April 25, 2025, at approximately 9:50 a.m., Visalia Police Department officers responded to a report of an armed robbery at the ARCO AM/PM located on North Dinuba Boulevard.
According to witness reports, the suspect entered the store and stole a display case containing an estimated 100 to 120 packs of Pokémon cards, with an approximate value of $1,000. As store employees followed the suspect to his vehicle, he lifted his shirt, revealing a firearm tucked into his waistband. The employees then ceased their pursuit and contacted law enforcement. The suspect subsequently fled the scene.
The Visalia Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit assumed the investigation, identifying the suspect as 30-year-old Michael Baker of Fresno. Detectives determined that Baker was allegedly involved in similar thefts of Pokémon cards from multiple businesses in the Fresno area.
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Baker was apprehended by McFarland Police Department officers. He was transported to Visalia for questioning and will be booked into the Tulare County Adult Pre-Trial Facility on charges of armed robbery.
The investigation remains ongoing. The Visalia Police Department encourages businesses that believe they may have been targeted by Baker to contact Detective Sam Gonzales at 559-713-4576. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling 559-713-4738.
