Paris Prosecutor Reveals Prior Convictions of Louvre Heist Suspects

Two suspects implicated in the recent Louvre Museum jewel heist have a shared history of criminal activity, according to the Paris prosecutor. On Sunday, Laure Beccuau disclosed that the two men had previously been convicted together in a theft case from 2015. This revelation comes as three of the four alleged members of the heist team are now in custody.

Beccuau reported that DNA evidence linked a 37-year-old suspect to the crime scene, specifically to a basket lift used to reach the museum’s window. He faces preliminary charges for theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. His criminal record includes 11 prior convictions, with ten attributed to theft. Similarly, a 39-year-old suspect, who was charged on Wednesday, has a history of 15 convictions, including two for theft.

Details of the Investigation

Beccuau highlighted the significance of their past convictions, noting, “What’s interesting about these records, when we compare them, is that … we see that they were both involved in the same theft case, for which they were convicted in Paris in 2015.” Another individual, aged 34, has also been charged this week as a suspected member of the group, which French media have termed the “commando” team.

Additionally, a 38-year-old woman, identified as the long-term partner of the 37-year-old suspect, faces preliminary charges of complicity. Beccuau pointed out a notable connection among all suspects, stating that they share a “closeness.” All four remain in custody as the investigation unfolds.

The prosecutor’s office is actively exploring various leads regarding the stolen jewelry. Beccuau remarked on the ongoing investigation into the parallel market, stating, “We are examining all the possibilities on the parallel market for selling this jewelry, which I hope will not happen anytime soon. … It could be used for money laundering, it could be used for trade; all leads are being explored.”

Official Statements and Public Response

In an interview with Le Parisien newspaper, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez expressed optimism regarding the investigation’s progress. He stated, “There are four perpetrators, at least one of whom remains at large, plus possibly the one or those who ordered the crime and the jewelry.” Nuñez emphasized his confidence in the police’s efforts but tempered expectations regarding the swift recovery of the stolen items, adding, “My optimism doesn’t extend to thinking that the loot will be recovered quickly.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on piecing together the full scope of the crime and the identities of any additional accomplices. The Louvre heist has captured public attention, raising concerns about security at one of the world’s most renowned art institutions.