Élysée Palace Chief Butler to Stand Trial for Theft of Precious Tableware
Thomas M, the Élysée Palace chief butler and argentier, will stand trial for the alleged theft of valuable tableware, including Baccarat champagne glasses and Sèvres porcelain plates. Approximately 100 missing items from the presidential collection were reportedly discovered in his locker, car, and home.
The stolen items are estimated to be worth between €15,000 and €40,000 (£13,000–£35,000), with some found listed on his Vinted account. Thomas M is accused of siphoning goods over several months while falsifying records. His role involved setting tables at state dinners and other prestigious events at the Élysée.
Other alleged stolen goods include solid silver cutlery and a René Lalique figurine. The Élysée has posted a replacement job advertisement for his position. Officials from Sèvres identified several items on online auctions, such as a plate embossed with an air force stamp and ashtrays.
Thomas M was arrested on 16 December alongside Damien G, a collector and manager of an online auction company. The following day, Ghislain M was arrested for receiving stolen goods; reports noted his status as a Louvre guard and a ban preventing his return to work until the trial.
