Provo City's Criminal Investigation Division is investigating a recent theft from Berg Mortuary of three original, high-value paintings.
The alert was posted to Provo Police's social media pages on Sept. 17.
According to Provo Police, there are limitations on public updates because of the ongoing nature of the case. However, Provo Police speculate the suspect will likely try to sell the artwork and ask the public to be on the lookout.
“We believe that the suspect was likely aware of their value, as these pieces were frequently seen by the public during viewings. The suspect appeared to focus solely on the paintings, leaving other items undisturbed,” Detective Cameron Nelson of Provo Police said.
The unique nature of the stolen items makes the market for selling them quite niche and the suspect will likely attempt to sell to a collector, Nelson said. Provo Police hope that increasing public awareness will help them locate the paintings.
Provo Police is currently exploring several leads, but cannot provide further details at this time. Berg Mortuary, the business from which the paintings were stolen, is also taking a proactive approach to recovering the stolen items, Nelson said.
The stolen paintings in question can be viewed below. Anyone with any information can contact Detective Nelson by email at cnelson@provo.org
