Former thief reveals he alerted Louvre to vulnerabilities in crown jewels security

A former bank robber has revealed that he alerted the Louvre to significant security vulnerabilities prior to a daring theft of crown jewels. Days after eight pieces were stolen, including valuable artifacts estimated at over $100 million, David Desclos emphasized the ease with which thieves could access the museum’s displays.

Security Concerns Raised by Former Thief

Desclos, who has a history of criminal activity, shared that he had discussed the Louvre’s weaknesses with a museum official during a podcast interview. The discussion took place in relation to a historic theft in 1792, but he couldn’t help but notice the vulnerabilities in the museum’s security system.

“Those windows are a piece of cake,” Desclos explained. He noted that the gallery’s windows provided easy access for potential thieves, especially when someone disguises themselves. Desclos warned about the risk of break-ins and the proximity of display cases to the street.

The Heist Details

On Sunday, two thieves broke through a window of the Apollo Gallery, armed with power tools, and managed to steal eight crown-jewel items in mere minutes. A ninth item, Empress Eugénie’s diamond-studded crown, was found outside the museum, damaged but recoverable.

• Stolen Items: Eight crown-jewel pieces valued at over $100 million.
• Time of Theft: Daylight hours, optimizing for quick access.
• Suspects: Two individuals arrested; others are still at large.

Desclos indicated that the timing of the theft was crucial. “Doing it during opening hours limits the response time from authorities,” he stated. He described a successful heist as well-planned choreography, emphasizing rehearsal and timing.

Weaknesses in Security Measures

Part of Desclos’ concern stemmed from a 2019 renovation of the Apollo Gallery’s display cases. He argued that the old cases were constructed in a way that allowed treasures to drop safely if attacked. However, the newer cases lacked this protective feature, resulting in greater vulnerability.

The Louvre responded to these criticisms by asserting that the updated display cases comply with contemporary security standards.

Ongoing Security Scrutiny

The theft has prompted increased scrutiny of security protocols within Paris museums. Paris Police Chief Patrice Faure is expected to address these security challenges in an upcoming French Senate session.

In the months leading up to the heist, the Louvre faced significant operational issues, including staff strikes that highlighted chronic understaffing and overwhelming visitor numbers. These ongoing issues have raised concerns about the museum’s ability to effectively secure its treasures.

Future of the Stolen Artifacts

The aftermath of the heist brings speculation about the fate of the stolen jewels. Desclos predicted that there is a high likelihood that the artifacts will be dismantled for their individual stones. He suggested that the originals should be stored securely, while replicas should be displayed for the public.

In light of the theft, reports indicate that remaining crown-jewel pieces have been transferred to the Banque de France’s secure vaults, alongside critical national treasures.

“They should have listened to my warnings,” Desclos remarked, reflecting on his past insights into the museum’s vulnerabilities.