Memphis, Tennessee – A Memphis man has admitted his role in a cargo theft scheme that involved goods stolen from an interstate shipment intended for a major retailer. Federal authorities announced that Gregory Luss, 44, pleaded guilty to one count of being in possession of goods stolen from interstate shipment.
The guilty plea was entered on March 3, 2026, before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker in federal court. The case was announced by D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee.
According to information presented during court proceedings, the case stems from the theft of a semi-tractor trailer that had been loaded with Water Pik products intended for shipment to Amazon. The trailer was stolen on October 20, 2023, from the Bledsoe Cove area in Memphis.
Investigators determined that shortly after the trailer was taken, Luss began attempting to sell the stolen items online. Prosecutors said the Water Pik products were listed for sale on an eBay account that was registered in his name on the same day the trailer was stolen.
Authorities say the case highlights the ongoing challenges related to cargo theft in Memphis, a city that serves as a major transportation and logistics hub for shipments moving across the United States.
Federal Authorities Warn About Cargo Theft Impact
Officials emphasized that crimes involving stolen shipments can disrupt supply chains and cause financial harm to businesses and consumers. Memphis has long been recognized as a critical center for the distribution of goods across the country, which makes the area especially vulnerable to cargo theft operations.
United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant addressed the issue in a statement following the guilty plea.
“Cargo theft from shipping containers and facilities disrupts and harms crucial interstate commerce here in Memphis, which is known as ‘America’s Distribution Center’. Instead of a luxury Water Pik, Mr. Luss will now have a standard prison-issued toothbrush in the Bureau of Prisons.”
Federal investigators said the case also demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities treat crimes that threaten the nation’s supply chain.
Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office said the investigation reflects the agency’s commitment to protecting interstate commerce.
“Thefts of interstate shipments disrupt the delivery of needed goods and drive-up costs for businesses and consumers alike,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “This guilty plea is an example of the FBI’s unwavering resolve and make it clear that anyone who threatens the nation’s supply chain will be tracked down and held accountable.”
Luss is scheduled to be sentenced on June 3, 2026. He faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison. Officials also noted that there is no parole in the federal prison system.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Cargo Theft Task Force. Prosecutors Lynn Crum and Lauren Delery, Assistant United States Attorneys, are handling the case on behalf of the federal government.
Authorities say the investigation is part of ongoing efforts to deter cargo theft and protect the transportation network that supports the movement of goods throughout the country.
