Paris Prosecutor Reveals Details of Louvre Museum Jewel Heist

Two men, identified as Algerian and French nationals, have been charged with theft and face 15 years in prison for stealing some of France's crown jewels from the Louvre museum. The men, suspected of being part of an organized gang, partially admitted to the crime and were traced through DNA samples left at the scene. The investigation has been ongoing since October 19, with 100 investigators working to recover the stolen jewels and apprehend two other suspects who helped the thieves escape on motor scooters.

Key Takeaways:

  • Two men, an Algerian and a French national, have been charged with theft and face 15 years in prison for stealing some of France's crown jewels from the Louvre museum.
  • The men, suspected of being part of an organized gang, partially admitted to the crime and were traced through DNA samples left at the scene.
  • The investigation has collected 189 pieces of evidence, processed 150 forensic samples, and spoken to about 20 witnesses.
  • The police are still searching for two other suspects who helped the thieves escape on motor scooters.
  • The stolen jewels, valued at an unknown amount, have not been recovered yet.
  • The two men were identified through DNA sampling and had previously been known to the police for theft and traffic violations.
  • The men's criminal history includes aggravated theft and traffic violations.

Statistics:

  • 100 investigators have been working on solving the sensational case since October 19.
  • 189 pieces of evidence have been collected in the investigation.
  • 150 forensic samples have been processed by the police.
  • 20 witnesses have been spoken to by the investigation team.
  • The two men face 15 years in prison if found guilty of the crime.
  • The stolen jewels, including an 18th-century diamond and emerald necklace, are valued at an unknown amount.

Sources:

AP News - Paris prosecutor's office statement

The Telegraph - Paris prosecutor briefs on Louvre museum jewel heist

France24 - Update on investigation into Louvre museum jewel theft