OAKLAND, Calif. — The Oakland Museum of California is grappling with a significant loss as police investigate the theft of over 1,000 items from its collection, including precious metalwork jewelry, Native American baskets, and various artifacts chronicling California’s vibrant history.
The burglary transpired in the early morning hours of October 15 at an off-site storage facility. Museum officials were prompted to go public as many of the stolen items could surface at pawn shops, flea markets, or online resale platforms.
“This theft isn’t just a loss for the museum; it's a loss to the community and the public,” stated Lori Fogarty, the museum’s director. “We hope the community can help us bring them home.”
Preliminary reports suggest this crime may have been an opportunistic act rather than a meticulously planned heist targeting valuable artworks. The thieves allegedly found an entry point and seized whatever items they could rapidly snatch up.
During this incident, stolen items featured notable pieces created by the late artist Florence Resnikoff and various historical memorabilia from the 20th century. Engaging the public’s help is seen as crucial, given the alarming prevalence of quick-cash archetypal artifacts via online and physical marketplaces.
Additionally, the National Crime Unit is collaborating with local police, as past experiences reveal that stolen artifacts can be identifiable via specialized networks thriving in cultural antiquities trafficking.
This theft closely follows another high-profile incident where thieves looted priceless jewels from the Louvre in France, heightening concerns over art security.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Oakland Police Department or FBI’s Art Crime Team.
