Londoner Jailed Over £270k Banksy Heist
A Beckton man has been locked up for 13 months after swiping a £270,000 Banksy masterpiece from a Fitzrovia gallery. Thanks to lightning-fast police work, the iconic print was back in safe hands within just four days.
Smash-and-Grab Caught on Camera
Larry Fraser, 49, stormed the Grove Gallery in early September, smashing through glass doors while masked and gloved to cover his tracks. He made off with the 2004 signed Banksy print “Girl with Balloon,” a piece treasured by collectors nationwide.
Flying Squad’s Quick Work Nets Thief and Artwork
Police pounced after reviewing CCTV footage showing Fraser loading the stolen Banksy into a van. Just two days later, he was arrested at his home. A raid on the Isle of Dogs returned the priceless artwork swiftly.
Co-Defendant Walks Free
James Love, 54, stood trial alongside Fraser but was cleared of all burglary charges, leaving Fraser solely to face the music for the daring heist.
Key Facts:
- Artwork stolen: Banksy’s “Girl with Balloon” signed print, circa 2004
- Burglary date: Sunday, 8 September 2024
- Sentencing date: Friday, 14 November 2024
- Sentence: 13 months imprisonment
- Location: Grove Gallery, Fitzrovia, London
