Chicago Raid Uncovers Cache of “High-End” Art

According to a report in the Chicago Tribune, a warrant carried out against a family charged with stealing $400,000 worth of high-end watches unexpectedly turned up thousands of stolen items, including a hoard of high end art.

Though the story does not identify any of the artworks—presumably because it might spark false claims from the public—one police sergeant tells the paper that some of the art was stolen from an art gallery in San Francisco, adding: “It seems as though this family is a clearinghouse for high-end art.”

Experts from the Art Institute of Chicago are helping police with the investigation, and most of the purportedly stolen merchandise was on display at the 18th district police station. Over the past weekend, victims were able to visit the station where they were required to provide proof of ownership.

Three men and two women were arrested recently after making off with the trove of watches. A man who was at the home when the search warrant was executed reportedly attempted to flee with some artworks but was apprehended. Along with artwork, the police also discovered designer clothes, vases, electronics, rugs, DVDs, and more.