French authorities have announced that three individuals will face trial in connection with the suspected theft of valuable porcelain, silverware, and tableware from the Elysee Palace, the official residence of the French President in Paris. The items are estimated to be worth between 15,000 and 40,000 euros ($17,500–$46,800).

According to the Paris prosecution office, the main suspect, Thomas M, who served as the palace’s silverware keeper, was arrested along with his partner, Damien G, for alleged theft. A third individual, Ghislain M, was detained on suspicion of receiving stolen goods. Full names of the suspects were withheld in line with French privacy customs.

Discovery of Stolen Items

Investigators found around 100 missing objects in Thomas M’s personal locker, vehicle, and home, including copper pots, Sèvres porcelain, and Baccarat champagne glasses. Some items, such as air force-stamped plates and ashtrays, were being sold online via the marketplace Vinted, according to prosecutors. These pieces are not available to the general public and are considered part of France’s national heritage.

Interviews with palace staff indicated that Thomas M’s suspicious adjustments to inventory records may have been attempts to anticipate and conceal thefts, prompting further investigation.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

The three suspects appeared in court on Thursday facing charges of:

• Joint theft of moveable property listed as part of the national heritage
• Aggravated handling of stolen goods

These offences carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and fines up to 150,000 euros ($175,000).

The trial has been postponed to February 26, 2026. In the meantime, the defendants are under judicial supervision, banned from contacting one another, prohibited from attending auctions, and barred from continuing professional activities related to their positions.

Links to Other Cultural Heists

Ghislain M reportedly worked as a guard at the Louvre Museum, and his lawyer described his client’s alleged involvement as motivated by a “passion” for rare antiques. This incident comes shortly after a high-profile robbery at the Louvre in October 2025, when thieves disguised as construction workers stole priceless pieces from France’s crown jewels, raising questions about security measures at national landmarks.

Additionally, the Sèvres porcelain factory, a key supplier to the Elysee Palace, identified several missing items being listed for sale on auction sites. Some of these objects have since been recovered.

Security Concerns at National Landmarks

The theft at the Elysee Palace, coupled with the Louvre heist, highlights ongoing concerns about the protection of France’s national heritage. Authorities continue to monitor auction sites and online marketplaces for illicit sales of stolen cultural objects.