Three Convicted in $4M Museum Heist Conspiracy

Three members of a Pennsylvania-based heist crew, Nicholas Dombek, Damien Boland, and Joseph Atsus, were convicted for their roles in a 20-year conspiracy involving the theft of art, sports memorabilia, and historic artifacts worth over $4 million. The crew targeted museums across at least five states, stealing significant items including Andy Warhol’s and Jackson Pollock’s paintings, Yogi Berra’s World Series rings, and Roger Maris’ MVP Trophy. Their criminal activities also involved melting the stolen items into metal discs or bars for resale in New York City. The convictions followed a four-week federal trial, with a former ringleader, Thomas Trotta, testifying against them. Five other co-conspirators have pled guilty and await sentencing, while Alfred Atsus was acquitted. Authorities detailed that the group operated since at least 1999, with their crimes spanning across Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey.