Charges Filed in Alleged Theft of England Team Gear

In a significant development during the World Cup preparations, two men have been charged with felony theft after allegedly stealing crucial equipment from the England national football team. The incident occurred as the team transitioned from Florida to their training base in Kansas City. The stolen items reportedly included match boots for several key players, tournament balls, and vital training equipment. This theft posed a logistical challenge for the England team, who were set to train at Swope Soccer Village in Missouri.

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Kansas City Police apprehended the suspects, Mustafa Salik and Erfan Kamal, who now face charges of receiving stolen property. The Jackson County Prosecutor announced that their bond is set at $75,000 each, with the charges carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 7 years if convicted. The stolen items are valued at approximately $18,000, although it remains unclear if the items have been recovered.

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson emphasized the seriousness of the crime, stating, "Jackson County will not tolerate any criminal activity that targets World Cup visitors, including the international teams that have traveled here to compete." Prior to the incident, England had secured friendly victories over New Zealand and Costa Rica, and they were preparing to face Croatia in Arlington, Texas, for their World Cup opener. With odds at +700, England is considered among the tournament favorites.

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