In a startling breach of security, three individuals are scheduled to face trial next year for allegedly pilfering precious silverware and tableware from the official residence of the French President, the Élysée Palace. The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the development, marking a significant chapter in a case that has raised serious questions about the safeguarding of national treasures.
The Heist at the Heart of French Power
The elaborate theft came to light after the head steward of the Élysée Palace reported the disappearance of items valued between 15,000 and 40,000 euros (approximately $17,500 to $46,800). The stolen collection, used for prestigious state dinners and official functions, included exquisite pieces such as Sèvres porcelain, Baccarat champagne glasses, copper saucepans, and a statuette by renowned artist René Lalique.
Investigations were triggered when palace staff noticed irregularities in inventory records, which hinted at potential future thefts. The trail led authorities to Thomas M, one of the palace's own silver stewards. In a series of searches, prosecutors recovered around 100 objects from his personal locker, vehicle, and home. Shockingly, some of these items, identified by the Sèvres Manufactory, had already surfaced on online auction websites.
The Arrests and a Guard's 'Passion' for Antiques
This week, law enforcement moved to make arrests. Thomas M and his partner, Damien G, were taken into custody on Tuesday under suspicion of theft. A third man, Ghislain M, was arrested on charges of receiving stolen goods. Intriguingly, Ghislain M is a guard at the world-renowned Louvre Museum in Paris. According to his lawyer, his alleged involvement may have been driven by a deep-seated "passion" for rare antique objects.
The investigators' digital sweep revealed further evidence. Some of the stolen goods, including a plate stamped "French Air Force" and Sèvres ashtrays not available to the public, were found listed for sale on Thomas M's Vinted account, a popular online marketplace. Authorities have confirmed that all recovered items have been safely returned to the Élysée Palace.
Legal Repercussions and Broader Security Concerns
The three suspects were presented before a court on Thursday, facing serious charges. They are accused of jointly stealing movable property listed as part of the national heritage, an offense that carries a severe penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 150,000 euros. They also face charges of aggravated handling of stolen goods.
The trial has been officially scheduled for February 26. Until then, the defendants have been placed under judicial supervision with strict conditions: they are barred from contacting each other, prohibited from visiting auction venues, and restricted from certain professional activities.
This case has ignited a wider debate about the security of France's cultural and historical assets. The concern is particularly acute as Ghislain M's workplace, the Louvre Museum, was itself the victim of a high-profile theft in October, when pieces from France's crown jewels were stolen. These consecutive incidents have prompted national introspection regarding the protective measures in place at the country's most iconic landmarks.
