Home / Crime and Justice / Thieves Loot 29 Churches Across France
Thieves Loot 29 Churches Across France
8 May
Summary
- A couple stole sacred items from 29 churches in northern France.
- The thieves were caught using cellphone geolocation technology.
- Recovered items were difficult to identify due to lack of inventories.
Over three months last summer, a couple targeted 29 churches across northern France, stealing sacred items. Their spree heightened concerns about the nation's ability to safeguard its cultural heritage.
The thieves, Raphaël Hourdeaux, 35, and Tony Paupière, 30, admitted to most accusations. Their methods often involved simple break-ins using crowbars after checking church closures online. They planned weekend trips around the burglaries, even visiting a spa near a targeted church in one instance.
Authorities utilized cellphone geolocation to track and apprehend the pair. Investigations revealed some items were sold to an antique dealer, while others were melted down for metal. A raid on their home uncovered numerous stolen liturgical items used as personal decorations.
The thefts exposed vulnerabilities in remote areas, sparking debates about sparse budgets and outdated security. Many villagers felt abandoned by the state, with churches often serving as vital symbols of identity.
Recovered items proved difficult to identify due to a lack of detailed church inventories. The couple was sentenced to three years in prison, with one year to be served at home under electronic monitoring. Compensation for the burgled communities is pending assessment.
