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Judge Opens Proceedings Against 38-Year-Old in Louvre Crown Jewel Heist

A scathing review has pushed the Louvre to accelerate new protections before year-end.

Overview

  • Prosecutors initiated a case against a 38-year-old woman from La Courneuve on suspicion of aiding organized theft and criminal conspiracy, with a judge to decide on pre-trial detention.
  • Seven people have been arrested in total; one of five detained on Wednesday was released without charge and others were presented to a judge.
  • Investigators report DNA linking at least one principal suspect to the robbery, and two earlier arrestees have given partial confessions and remain in custody.
  • The eight stolen pieces valued at about €88 million have not been recovered, aside from Empress Eugénie’s crown found nearby in a badly damaged state.
  • Culture Minister Rachida Dati ordered immediate security upgrades at the museum, including anti-vehicle measures before year-end, as investigators also examine whether a commissioning organizer was involved.