[MSN] Arrested antiquarian trader moved to psychiatric ward

[Ellie Bruggeman]

Arrested antiquarian trader moved to psychiatric ward

09.08.2006, 18.32
ST. PETERSBURG, August 9 (Itar-Tass) -- One of the arrested suspects in the theft of 221 exhibits from the Hermitage State Museum – 38-year-old antiquarian trader Maxim Shepel – has been moved from the detention center to the psychiatric department of the Gaaza Special Hospital, the St. Petersburg penitentiaries office has told Itar-Tass.

“The man is suffering from a mental disorder and has injured himself,” the source said. The penitentiaries department is conducting an inquiry.

Three suspects in the theft from the Russian jewelry department have been arrested so far, but charges have been brought against only one of them. According to some sources, he has signed a cooperation statement and from the formal point of view he was not arrested, but gave up himself to the authorities of his own accord.

There is evidence the stolen items were marketed mostly through two pawnshops. Receipts were confiscated from two of the arrested. Shops trading in antiquities are being inspected.

A group of investigators and prosecutors arrived in St. Petersburg from Moscow to investigate the case opened under article 158 of the Criminal Code (Major Theft).

St. Petersburg law enforcers continue the search for missing exhibits and contacts with the community of antiquarian traders.

Thirteen rarities have been returned. Museum experts are now studying the recovered items to confirm their authenticity. 

http://www.tass.ru/