PARIS — France’s presidential silverware keeper, Thomas M, and two other men are set to stand trial over the alleged theft of valuable tableware from the Elysee Palace, prosecutors announced.
Thomas M and his partner, Damien G, were arrested on suspicion of theft, while Ghislain M was detained for allegedly receiving stolen goods. Their full names were not disclosed due to French privacy laws. The missing items, used for state dinners and official events, are valued between 15,000 and 40,000 euros ($17,500–$46,800).
Prosecutors said Thomas M appeared to manipulate inventory records in anticipation of thefts. Investigators recovered around 100 objects from his locker, vehicle, and home, including copper pots, Sevres porcelain, and Baccarat champagne glasses. Some items, stamped with Air Force markings, were found being sold online via the Vinted marketplace, which normally does not sell such objects to the public.
The three suspects appeared in court on Thursday on charges of jointly stealing property listed as part of France’s national heritage—a crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a €150,000 fine—along with aggravated handling of stolen goods. The trial has been postponed to February 26. The defendants were placed under judicial supervision, barred from contacting each other, prohibited from attending auctions, and restricted from professional activities related to their work.
Reports indicate Ghislain M worked as a Louvre museum guard. His lawyer stated his client’s motivation was a “passion” for rare antique items. The theft has raised concerns about security at French national landmarks, following a separate October robbery at the Louvre when thieves stole pieces from the crown jewels.
The Sevres porcelain factory, a main supplier for the Elysee, identified some of the stolen items on auction websites, and a number have since been returned.
