"Hundreds of Stolen Art, Recovered – UPDATE"
Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department’s Art Theft Unit recovered hundreds of pieces of stolen art and collectibles.
On August 7, 2003, Darrin Anthony Wright, 37 years-old, was arrested in the 1000 block of Westlake Avenue for narcotic charges. During the arrest detectives were surprised to discover the house filled with more than 200 artworks including a wide array of antiques and collectibles such as rare books, coins, stamps, sports cards, comics, jewelry, pocket watches, guns, clocks and many other items. On August 13, 2003, a search warrant was served in which another truckload of items was seized from the house and storage locations.
Wright has been charged with sales of methamphetamine, ex-con with a gun and receiving stolen property. He is suspected of being a "fence" who traded drugs for rare items stolen by burglars who targeted homes and cars.
At least 90 victims have been identified so far. The crimes occurred throughout Los Angeles County. Photos and information on seized items have been posted on the internet in the hope of locating additional victims and returning property to the legal owners.