CHICAGO — A 57-year-old man from Chicago is facing felony charges after authorities say they recovered nearly $400,000 worth of stolen fitness equipment and other merchandise from two South Side locations, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.
Isadore House has been charged with Class 1 felony theft following a months-long investigation by the Cook County Organized Retail Crime Unit, Sheriff Tom Dart announced Wednesday.
Investigation Tied to Facebook Marketplace Sales
The case began back in April, when investigators discovered that fitness gear stolen during a cargo theft in Joliet was being sold online via Facebook Marketplace.
Undercover officers arranged to purchase several pieces over time from two locations tied to House:
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A storefront in the 1800 block of West 87th Street
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A storage unit in the 0-100 block of West 85th Street
Both locations were raided last week, where authorities recovered the stolen merchandise — including gym equipment, gloves, and other retail goods. House was arrested the following day and formally charged.
Suspect Released Pending Trial
A judge ordered House’s release while he awaits trial. His next court date is set for Thursday, though no additional charges have been announced at this time.
Photos released by the Sheriff’s Office show shelves full of boxed goods, including new exercise machines and branded fitness items believed to be part of the Joliet theft.
$5 Million Recovered Since Task Force Launch
This case is the latest success for Sheriff Dart’s Organized Retail Crime Unit, which was launched in 2023 in response to increasing cargo theft, coordinated store thefts, and online resale of stolen goods.
Since its creation, the unit has now recovered more than $5 million in stolen merchandise across Cook County, according to officials.
Ever Bought Something on Facebook Marketplace?
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