YouTuber Reckless Ben, whose real name is Benjamin Schneider, has issued a response after the American Fork Police Department released a detailed statement defending its actions during an investigation connected to a disputed $200,000 Lego Star Wars collection. The controversy stems from Schneider's ongoing investigation into allegations that rare Lego Star Wars sets belonging to Oregon collector Brian Mancel disappeared following a change in ownership at a Bricks & Minifigs franchise.
The Background of the Dispute
Schneider has documented the case extensively on YouTube, including encounters with police, arrests, and the execution of a search warrant at an Airbnb where he and his team were staying. According to the American Fork Police Department, officers were not investigating the underlying business dispute but were instead responding to complaints from Bricks & Minifigs employee Joshua Johnson and his family.
Police Allegations Against Schneider
Police stated that Schneider and individuals associated with him repeatedly attempted to contact Johnson at his home, photographed the property, delivered packages, and placed signs near the residence despite previous warnings. Authorities said they established probable cause to arrest Schneider on allegations of stalking and targeted residential picketing under Utah law. Court documents cited by the department allege that Schneider coordinated repeated efforts to contact Johnson over several days.
The Search Warrant Controversy
The department also addressed claims surrounding a search warrant executed at the Airbnb. According to court records, officers sought permission to search for allegedly stolen Lego merchandise after receiving information from the property owner. The warrant was approved, but official records indicate no items were seized during the search.
Schneider's Response
In a June 1 YouTube video, Schneider disputed the department's account and criticized the release of what he described as heavily redacted body-camera footage. He also suggested legal action could follow and called for the release of unedited recordings. The dispute remains ongoing, with Schneider confirming that a third installment of his investigation is expected to be released in the future.
