Former Augusta National Worker Gets Prison Time for $5.3M Masters Merchandise Theft
A federal judge sentenced Richard Brendan Globensky to one year in federal prison for stealing $5.3 million worth of Masters Tournament merchandise while working at Augusta National Golf Club’s warehouse. That includes a Green Jacket that belonged to golf legend Arnold Palmer.
From 2009 until he was caught, Globensky ran an operation through his wife’s company to sell the stolen items. After starting at the warehouse in 2007, he carefully sneaked out merchandise in small amounts to avoid regular inventory checks.
The stolen goods moved through various dealers in Florida and Illinois, who sold them at huge markups. While Globensky made $5.3 million from the scheme, Augusta National lost $3.5 million directly.
Financial records showed Globensky spent $370,000 on luxury cars and vacations. In court, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Hayes called these purchases pure greed.
During sentencing, a regretful Globensky owned up to his actions, apologizing to the judge and his family. “I deeply regret the decision that led me to this moment,” he said, his voice breaking, according to The Associated Press. “I have taken full responsibility for my actions and remain committed to doing everything in my power to make amends.”
