A recent court hearing in London revealed that a Banksy print, valued at £270,000, was stolen from a gallery in a mere 36 seconds. The theft took place on September 8, 2024, at the Grove Gallery in Fitzrovia around 10:58 PM. Larry Fraser confessed to the burglary in October, while James Love is currently on trial at Kingston Crown Court for his alleged role in the crime.
Love has pleaded not guilty to a charge of non-residential burglary, as he is accused of being the getaway driver for Fraser during the heist. The artwork in question was a limited-edition signed print of Banksy’s iconic piece, Girl with Balloon, which was featured in a two-week exhibition at the gallery.
According to gallery owner James Ryan, security footage captured the entire event, showing Fraser, wearing a mask, breaking in and escaping with the artwork in just 36 seconds. Ryan described the piece as being owned by a private collector and stated its significant value.
During proceedings on September 15, prosecutor Philip Stott outlined the case against Love, alleging that he assisted Fraser in the burglary. Stott asserted that Love drove Fraser to the gallery and then facilitated their escape with the stolen artwork. Evidence was presented showing that Love had made multiple bank transactions to Fraser, including one notable payment of £200 on the day of the theft.
Additionally, it was revealed that Love’s vehicle was spotted just three feet from the gallery during the robbery. The prosecution pointed out Love’s phone activity on the day, as it connected to a mast near the gallery. Stott also noted that Love had a collection of heart-themed artwork, suggesting a possible motive tied to the stolen piece.
The trial is ongoing.
