In a significant breakthrough concerning the audacious Louvre jewels heist, the Paris prosecutor announced on Sunday, November 2, 2025, that two of the apprehended suspects share a notable past: they were previously convicted together for theft a decade ago. This revelation underscores a potential pattern of organized criminal activity, as three out of the four alleged members of the heist team are now in custody.
Prosecutor Laure Beccuau disclosed that DNA evidence belonging to a 37-year-old man, who was charged on Saturday, November 1, 2025, was discovered inside the basket lift utilized to access the museum’s window. He now faces preliminary charges of theft by an organized gang and criminal conspiracy. This individual’s extensive criminal history includes 11 previous convictions, with an overwhelming 10 specifically related to theft.
Similarly, a 39-year-old suspect, who received similar preliminary charges earlier in the week, has a record of 15 convictions, including two for theft. Ms. Beccuau highlighted a crucial connection between these individuals, stating, “What’s interesting about these records, when we compare them, is that … we see that they were both involved in the same theft case, for which they were convicted in Paris in 2015.”
Another 34-year-old man, believed to be part of the ‘commando’ team — as French media have dramatically labeled the thieves — was also charged this week. Furthermore, a 38-year-old woman, identified as the long-term partner of the 37-year-old suspect, was handed preliminary charges of ‘complicity’ on Saturday. Ms. Beccuau noted a discernible ‘closeness’ among all the suspects involved. All four individuals are currently being held in custody as the investigation continues.
When pressed for details regarding the progress in recovering the stolen jewels, Ms. Beccuau remained tight-lipped, refraining from providing specifics. She confirmed, “We are examining all the possibilities on the parallel market for selling this jewelry, which I hope will not happen anytime soon. … It could be used for money laundering, it could be used for trade, all leads are being explored.”
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, in an interview with Le Parisien newspaper on Saturday, expressed a degree of optimism regarding the ongoing investigation. He remarked, “There are four perpetrators, at least one of whom remains at large, plus possibly the one or those who ordered the crime and the jewelry.”
Mr. Nuñez conveyed his strong confidence in the diligent work of the police, stating, “I have great confidence in the work of the police, so I’m optimistic. But my optimism doesn’t extend to thinking that the loot will be recovered quickly.” The recovery of the valuable stolen items remains a key focus for authorities.