Two British men have been sentenced to prison for stealing a solid gold toilet worth around $6 million from Blenheim Palace in England. The famous artwork, called America, was on display at the historic home of Winston Churchill when it was stolen in 2019.
James Sheen, 44, was named as the mastermind behind the theft. Michael Jones, 39, also played a key role in the crime. The court heard that five burglars broke into the palace just hours after a party and stole the 18-carat gold toilet in less than six minutes.
The toilet, made by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, has never been recovered. Police believe it was broken apart and melted to sell the gold.
Officers used DNA evidence, security footage, and phone records to catch the thieves. Sheen’s DNA was found at the scene, and gold particles were discovered on his clothes. Jones even took selfies with the toilet before stealing it.
James Sheen pleaded guilty to burglary and conspiracy and was sentenced to four years in prison. Michael Jones was found guilty after a trial and sentenced to two years and three months.
Another man, Frederick Doe, who helped arrange the sale of the stolen gold, received a suspended sentence with unpaid work.
Officials from Blenheim Palace thanked police for their work. The Crown Prosecution Service called it one of the most unusual theft cases they have handled.
The artwork remains missing, but those responsible are now facing justice.
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