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4h ago

Man Sentenced to 13 Months for Theft of Banksy’s 'Girl With Balloon' Print

CCTV led to an arrest within 48 hours, resulting in the £270,000 print being recovered intact.

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Overview

  • Kingston Crown Court handed Larry Fraser, 49, a 13-month prison term on November 14 after he pleaded guilty in October.
  • Police say Fraser forced his way into Grove Gallery in London’s Fitzrovia using a hammer to steal the print in 2024.
  • Despite wearing a mask and gloves, he was identified on surveillance footage and arrested within two days.
  • Investigators recovered the artwork intact shortly after the arrest and returned it to the gallery, drawing praise from police and gallery staff for the rapid response.
  • 'Girl With Balloon' is among Banksy’s most recognizable images and was first seen in London in 2002.