This story goes back to 2010, shortly after Mole Man made his "American Pickers" debut, and his popularity had begun to surge. Naturally, word spread fast of this eccentric trinket collector, but not everyone was content simply allowing him to enjoy his newfound fame. According to Tickld, someone living in a town near his home decided to capitalize on his trendiness, putting together an event to sell supposed genuine Mole Man collectibles and autographed memorabilia, seemingly implying an appearance from the man himself (via Screen Rant).
Come to find out, the "Pickers" sensation had nothing to do with this and was blatantly swindled out of money that was made using his name. This is a serious crime, not to mention morally reprehensible, and Mole Man certainly didn't deserve to have this happen to him. Although only a few years later, he'd find himself on the opposite end of the law. In 2017, he broke into a barn in Donegal Township, Pennsylvania, making off with over $650 worth of items, as reported by WPXI News. The owner later identified him as the culprit, and he was charged with burglary in February of 2020.
As of this writing, Mole Man has since avoided further legal trouble, but regardless, it's a shame that the "American Pickers" favorite wound up exploited by someone looking to make a quick buck. One can only hope that he got justice in some form or fashion.
