In a remarkable case that highlights the audacity of crime intertwined with the art world, two men from Oxford have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in the theft of a solid 18-carat gold toilet, valued at approximately £4.8 million ($6.5 million). This peculiar and valuable piece of art, titled “America,” was stolen during a lavish art exhibition at Blenheim Palace in September 2019, shortly after its launch party.

The artwork was created by the renowned Italian contemporary artist Maurizio Cattelan, who is well-known for pushing the boundaries of art with provocative works, including a viral installation featuring a banana duct-taped to a wall. The toilet itself was not only a functional object but a statement piece, drawing significant attention during the exhibition.

James Sheen, aged 40, pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and conspiring to sell the stolen gold, while his accomplice, 39-year-old Michael Jones, was convicted of burglary after a jury trial. The court described the theft as a “bold and brazen” act that was executed in a remarkably short time frame of just over five minutes. Judge Ian Pringle KC emphasized the calculated nature of the crime, branding Sheen as the mastermind behind the operation.

During the investigation, substantial evidence was uncovered, including Sheen’s DNA found on the scene, pieces of gold that were discovered on his clothing, and incriminating messages stored on his mobile phone. Crown prosecutor Shan Saunders noted the unusual wealth of information obtained from Sheen’s phone, including voice notes directed to Fred Doe, who had previously been found guilty of conspiring to sell the stolen toilet. The messages were written in coded language, incorporating Romany and Cockney slang, complicating the understanding of their content. For instance, Sheen referred to the gold as “the car,” suggesting its high value.

Just two weeks following the daring heist, Sheen managed to sell 20 kilograms of the stolen gold for a staggering £520,000 (about $707,200). His criminal history is extensive, with at least six prior incarcerations since 2005, and he is currently serving a 19-year sentence for other offenses. With the additional four years for this latest crime, he will continue to serve time for his ongoing criminal activities.

In contrast, Jones, who also has a criminal past, was known to have visited Blenheim Palace twice leading up to the theft. On one occasion, he reserved a time slot to use the toilet, during which he took photographs and assessed the layout of the location, calling the gold toilet “splendid.” This prior reconnaissance proved beneficial in planning the theft. Detective Superintendent Bruce Riddell stated that Sheen's determination to profit from crime was evident, as he sought to “make money by any means necessary.”

As the art world continues to grapple with issues of theft and security, this case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths individuals will go to for financial gain.