In a stunning blow to the contemporary art world, a man has been formally charged in connection with the audacious theft of an estimated £400,000 worth of property from a storage facility belonging to the iconic British artist, Damien Hirst.
Metropolitan Police confirmed that Michael Burdett, 42, of no fixed abode, was charged on Tuesday, 17th September, with one count of theft by employee. The alleged theft is reported to have taken place from a warehouse in the Lambeth area of London, which housed a treasure trove of Hirst's artwork, personal clothing, and valuable equipment.
The Details of the Alleged Heist
The stolen haul is believed to be vast and diverse, underscoring the warehouse's role as a crucial repository for the artist's work and assets. While a full inventory has not been disclosed, the theft reportedly included:
- High-value original artwork by the famed artist.
- Personal clothing and items belonging to Damien Hirst.
- Specialist art equipment used in the creation and preservation of his pieces.
The total value of the missing items is a staggering £400,000, pointing to a significant and targeted operation.
A Swift Police Investigation
Burdett was apprehended and charged following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police's Central South CID. He was taken into custody and later bailed, with his case scheduled to be heard at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 2nd October.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated: "A man has been charged following a report of theft from a commercial premises in Lambeth. The theft was reported to have occurred between June and July 2024."
This case sends ripples through the art community, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by high-profile artists and the immense black-market value of contemporary art. For Hirst, one of the UK's most successful and controversial living artists, the violation of a private storage space represents both a significant financial and personal loss.
