Builder Cleared of Stealing £270,000 Banksy Print
A builder, James Love, 54, from North Stifford in Essex, has been cleared of burglary after being accused of stealing a Banksy print, "Girl With Balloon," valued at £270,000 from the Grove Gallery in central London. The artwork was snatched during a daytime raid in September of last year. Larry Fraser, 48, pleaded guilty to the burglary.
The Allegations Against James Love
James Love was accused of acting as the getaway driver for Larry Fraser after Fraser smashed the glass front door of the Grove Gallery in Fitzrovia on September 8th. The limited-edition "Girl With Balloon" print was stolen in just 36 seconds. The prosecution alleged that Love conspired with Fraser to steal the artwork, potentially as a gift for his girlfriend. Love consistently maintained his innocence, stating that he was unaware of Fraser's intentions and had been used.
Prosecutors presented evidence showing that Love drove Fraser to the gallery, maintained regular contact with him throughout the day, and assisted in stashing the print after the theft. CCTV footage showed Love helping Fraser load the artwork into a van. However, Love testified that this was when he first realized what Fraser had done and that he was furious about it.
Love's Defense and the Recovery of the Artwork
Love claimed he left the stolen Banksy print at a block of flats in the Isle of Dogs. Police eventually recovered the artwork based on a map and instructions provided by Love at his first court appearance. He stated that he had known Fraser for around 20 years and occasionally hired him for laboring jobs. Love's solicitor pointed out the improbability of someone planning such a poorly executed heist for personal gain, highlighting the fact that the print was recovered within 72 hours.
The Trial and Verdict
After a week-long trial at Kingston Crown Court, the jury acquitted James Love of burglary. He denied being a Banksy enthusiast, despite images of heart-themed artwork found in his home. The prosecution suggested he wanted the "Girl With Balloon" print to add to his collection or gift it to his girlfriend, whose surname is Heart. The jury deliberated for over six hours before reaching the verdict.
Larry Fraser's Role and Sentencing
Larry Fraser, who admitted to the burglary in October of last year, is awaiting sentencing. The stolen "Girl With Balloon" print was part of an exhibition showcasing a £1.5 million collection of 13 different Banksy pieces at the Grove Gallery. The print was quickly recovered by officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad.
