British Museum Deputy Director Departs Amid Theft Scandal

Dr Jonathan Williams steps down following botched investigation into theft of 2,000 artefacts, with police investigation and legal action ongoing.

Dr Jonathan Williams, the deputy director of the British Museum, is leaving his post following a scandal involving the theft of around 2,000 artefacts.
The museum had been alerted to suspicions of thefts in 2021 by Dr Ittai Gradel, but an initial investigation incorrectly concluded there was no basis to the claims.
An audit in April 2022 revealed further evidence of missing objects, leading to a police investigation and the sacking of an unnamed staff member.
Of the 2,000 missing or stolen items, 351 have already been returned and more than 300 further items have been identified.
The British Museum has announced plans to complete the documentation and digitisation of the entire collection within the next five years.