Two Suspects Charged in Louvre Museum Jewel Heist

Paris prosecutors announced Wednesday that two men in custody following the October 19 Louvre Museum heist have been charged with organized robbery and conspiracy to commit a crime. Both suspects remain in prison pending trial.

During a press conference, Paris Public Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said investigators are making “major progress”, though the stolen jewels are still missing. If convicted, the suspects could face up to 15 years in prison and heavy fines.

Beccuau noted that both men, from the Paris suburb of Seine-Saint-Denis, partially admitted their involvement. DNA evidence collected from a scooter used in the heist and a Louvre window helped authorities identify the suspects.

• First suspect: Arrested Saturday at Charles de Gaulle Airport while attempting to leave France without a return ticket. He has lived in France since 2010 and has prior robbery convictions.

• Second suspect: A taxi driver arrested near his home; DNA linked him to a Louvre window. He had previous convictions for aggravated robbery in 2008 and 2014. Contrary to earlier reports, he had no intention of leaving the country.

A manhunt continues for at least two additional suspects, and authorities have not ruled out the involvement of more accomplices.

The investigation continues as Paris authorities work to recover the missing jewels and secure further charges.