A builder allegedly stole a rare Banksy print worth an estimated £250,000 to complete his personal collection of artworks linked to his surname, 'Love', a court has heard.
Michael Doyle, 36, is accused of taking the highly sought-after 'Love is in the Bin' piece from the social club where he was working in Kingston-upon-Thames. The artwork, which features the artist's iconic heart motif, was part of a limited edition run.
Prosecutors at Wimbledon Magistrates' Court outlined how the defendant was employed as a builder at the venue. It is alleged he took the opportunity to remove the framed print, which had been left in a storage room, and transport it away from the site.
A Theft Themed Around a Name
The court heard a fascinating motive behind the alleged crime. Doyle is said to have a keen interest in art, specifically pieces connected to the word 'Love'. He had reportedly been building a personal 'gallery' of such works at his home, and the Banksy print was the final piece he desired to complete his collection.
The 'Love is in the Bin' piece is a particularly significant work. It is a print of the artwork that Banksy famously partially shredded live at a Sotheby's auction in 2018, a stunt that dramatically increased its value and notoriety in the art world.
The Investigation and Recovery
The theft was discovered on July 6th, prompting an investigation. The artwork, described as a substantial framed piece, was later recovered by police. The court was told that its value is conservatively estimated to be between £200,000 and £250,000, a sum that reflects Banksy's immense global prestige.
Michael Doyle, of Bedfont, southwest London, has been charged with one count of theft. He has yet to enter a formal plea. The case has been sent to Kingston upon Thames Crown Court, where he is scheduled to appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing on October 11th.
