Gold Toilet Heist Trial: Accused Searched Online After Blenheim Palace Theft

The trial of three men accused of stealing a £4.8 million solid gold toilet from Blenheim Palace in 2019 continues, with new details emerging about the alleged actions of one of the defendants in the aftermath of the brazen theft.

According to reports, Martin Eastaugh, one of the accused, allegedly searched for online news articles related to the missing golden toilet in the days following its disappearance. This detail, presented during the trial, suggests a possible awareness or involvement in the crime and potentially an attempt to monitor the investigation’s progress and public reaction.

The gold toilet, a fully functional piece of art entitled ‘America’ by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, was plumbed into the palace’s plumbing system and available for visitors to use. Its high value and unique nature made it an immediate target for thieves. The theft caused significant damage to the palace’s plumbing and resulted in widespread media coverage.

The other two men on trial are also facing charges related to the theft. The prosecution is building its case based on a combination of forensic evidence, witness testimonies, and digital records, including the aforementioned online searches. The defense teams are expected to argue against the evidence and present alternative explanations for their clients’ alleged involvement.

The trial is expected to last several weeks and will undoubtedly continue to capture the public’s attention. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for art security and will serve as a cautionary tale for institutions displaying high-value and unusual artworks.