The Case of the Missing Presidential Treasures

A trial is coming up soon for three men, including the person in charge of France's presidential silverware. They're accused of stealing fancy dishes and other valuable items from the Elysee Palace, the president's official home. The missing items were used for big events and are worth a lot of money, between 15, 000 and 40, 000 euros. The main suspect, Thomas M. , is the palace's silverware keeper. He and his partner, Damien G. , were arrested for theft. Another man, Ghislain M. , was arrested for allegedly receiving stolen goods. Investigators found about 100 items in Thomas M. 's locker, car, and home. These included copper pots, Sevres porcelain, and Baccarat champagne glasses. Thomas M. had been adjusting the inventory numbers in a way that made it look like items were being used up naturally. This made it easier for him to steal things without anyone noticing right away. Investigators also found an air force-stamped plate and ashtrays on his online selling account.Ghislain M. worked as a guard at the Louvre museum. His lawyer said he was passionate about rare antiques, which might have motivated him to get involved. He's not allowed to go back to work at the Louvre until the trial is over. This isn't the first time the Louvre has had trouble with theft. In October, thieves dressed as construction workers stole valuable pieces from France's crown jewels. This raised questions about how well the country's landmarks are protected. The Sevres porcelain factory, which supplies the Elysee with dishes, found some of the missing items on auction websites. Some of these items have already been returned. The trial is scheduled for February. It will be interesting to see what happens and if the men are found guilty.