About the Art Theft Detail

[NOTICE: LAPD's Art Theft Detail has been discontinued as an investigative specialty. The unique two-detective unit was in existence for over 30 years and recovered nearly $123 million in cultural property since 1993. This could not have been achieved without the support of L.A.'s art community which generously gave their time and expertise to assist us in fighting art theft and art fraud to protect L.A.'s artistic, cultural and historical heritage.]

The Art Theft Detail is responsible for the investigation of all thefts and burglaries when fine art is the primary object of attack. The detail also investigates fakes, frauds, and forgeries involving art. This unit has citywide jurisdiction and assists in protecting the artistic, cultural and historical heritage of a city of 4 million people covering more than 450 square miles. It is the only full-time municipal law enforcement unit in the United States devoted to the investigation of art crimes.

The two detectives assigned to the Art Theft Detail target suspects who prey upon artists, art dealers, and collectors. The unit maintains close contact with the art community and provides stolen art information to galleries, art dealers, auction houses, museums, art associations, publications and other law enforcement agencies – both nationally and internationally.

Total Recoveries Since 1993

$122,999,616