Neptune Aquatics, a Milpitas, CA fish store, is reporting that a thief stole over $1,000 USD in live coral from their retail storefront. The corals reportedly stolen were a $650 Rainbow Acanthastrea colony, $300 Scolymia australis and two $65 cultured T. maxima clams. The entire event was captured by the store’s camera system and shows [...]
Neptune Aquatics, a Milpitas, CA fish store, is reporting that a thief stole over $1,000 USD in live coral from their retail storefront. The corals reportedly stolen were a $650 Rainbow Acanthastrea colony, $300 Scolymia australis and two $65 cultured T. maxima clams. The entire event was captured by the store’s camera system and shows the Coral Bandit awkwardly grab the box and make a run for it.
To be frank, we weren’t sure if this was a marketing scam or a legitimate crime. In the name of due diligence, we quickly called the Milpitas Police Department and they confirmed a case was filed by Neptune Aquatics. Please note, the Police could not comment on the nature of the case.
Police case aside, the whole situation is quite odd and likely preventable. To start, who wears sunglasses when buying colorful corals? Oh we get it. He didn’t want his face to be seen–but really, this should have tipped off the store. Additionally, the placement of the box (left unattended) is peculiar.
None of this excuses the behavior seen in this video, but it is something for LFS owners and workers to keep an out for. The thief was last seen driving off in a blue Toyota Four Runner–if you know this guy or have any additional  information please contact the police.
[Thanks Reggie]
