The Louvre Heist: A Theft That Left Experts Scratching Their Heads

The recent Louvre heist has everyone talking, but not for the right reasons. Experts are baffled by the sheer audacity and apparent incompetence of the thieves. The break-in, which lasted a mere seven minutes, saw intruders snatch over $100 million in royal jewels and crown diamonds. The thieves managed to breach a second-floor window, a feat that has left seasoned criminals shaking their heads. Larry Lawton, a former jewelry thief who spent over 11 years in prison, knows a thing or two about planning a heist. He believes the thieves had an inside connection, possibly someone familiar with the museum's layout. Lawton, now a motivational speaker, recalled his own days of casing jewelry stores, looking for vulnerabilities. He emphasized the importance of knowing your escape route before making a move. The Louvre thieves, however, seem to have left a trail of clues, including gloves, a helmet, and a vest with DNA traces. Joan Hannington, another former thief known as "the Godmother, " echoed Lawton's sentiments. She believes the thieves had detailed knowledge of the museum's security lapses. The stolen items, which include a royal sapphire necklace and a diadem worn by Empress Eugénie, could easily be broken down and sold individually. Both Lawton and Hannington criticized the Louvre's security measures, particularly the lack of insurance for the stolen jewels. Hannington quipped that the French authorities couldn't catch a cold, let alone the thieves. Despite the heist's flaws, the thieves managed to get away with valuable items. Lawton advised them to leave France immediately, suggesting methods like "suitcasing" to smuggle jewels through airport security. Hannington, who once swallowed gemstones with olive oil, couldn't fathom how the thieves left a crown behind. The Louvre heist has left experts less than impressed, with some comparing it to a Hollywood script. But for real-life criminals, it's a lesson in what not to do.