Eight Philadelphia Teen Football Players Charged With Felony Theft

Eight teenage players from the United Thoroughbreds, a youth football team from Philadelphia, were arrested in Polk County, Florida, on December 9, 2025, after allegedly stealing $2,296 worth of merchandise from a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Davenport. The teens - five aged 15 and three aged 14 - had traveled to Florida for the Prolifix Nationals championship tournament. All eight were charged with third-degree felony retail theft and conspiracy to commit retail theft. They missed their championship game, which their team lost 26-6.

The Alleged Theft

According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, the teens took Uber rides from their hotel to the store and worked in pairs to systematically steal 47 items, including Nike hoodies, Under Armour football gloves, lip guards, and cotton underwear. Security footage captured the group stuffing merchandise into bags and their pants. One player purchased a branded bag in-store specifically to use as a concealment device. Deputies were positioned outside the store and apprehended several of the teens as they attempted to exit; others were detained inside.

Fallout and Official Reactions

The eight players were transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center. Sheriff Judd labeled the group the “Thoroughbred Thieves” and stated that no visitor is above the law in Polk County. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis posted on social media that the teens had “picked the wrong state - and the wrong county” for their alleged crime.

Team coach Raekwon Bynes reportedly pleaded with law enforcement and store staff to release the players and drop the charges. Sheriff Judd publicly criticized the coach’s response, arguing that shielding the players from consequences sent the wrong message. The case was referred to the Florida State Attorney’s Office for review, and the teens will be required to return to Florida from Pennsylvania to face charges.

References: Teen Football Stars Allegedly Stole $2K of Merchandise Before Championship Game | Philadelphia football players steal 2000 worth from Florida Dicks Sporting Goods | Teen football players arrested after alleged $2K Dick’s Sporting Goods theft