PARIS (AP) — Three men will go on trial next year after a silver steward working at the French president's official residence was arrested this week for stealing thousands of euros worth of silverware and tableware, Paris prosecutors said.
The general manager of the Élysée Palace reported the disappearance, with estimated damages ranging from 15,000 to 40,000 euros ((US$17,500 to 47,000).
The Sèvres manufactory, which supplied most of the furniture, discovered several missing items on online auction sites. Questioning by Elysée Palace staff led investigators to suspect one of the Silver Stewards, whose inventory records gave the impression that he was planning future thefts.
Investigators found that the man was in a relationship with the manager of a company specializing in the online sale of items, in particular tableware. Investigators found in his Vinted account a sign with the inscription “French Air Force” and ashtrays “Sèvres Manufacture”, which are not available to the general public.
About 100 items were found in the Silver Steward's personal locker, his car and their home. Items found included copper pans, Sèvres porcelain, a René Lalique figurine and a Baccarat champagne coupe.
Both were arrested on Tuesday. Investigators also identified one recipient of the stolen goods. The items found were returned to the Elysee Palace.
The three suspects appeared in court on Thursday charged with joint theft of movable property listed as a national treasure, an offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 150,000 euros, as well as aggravated handling of stolen goods.
The trial has been postponed to February 26. The defendants were placed under judicial supervision, they were prohibited from contacting each other, appearing on auction sites, and were suspended from professional activities.
