On August 15, 2023, Lawrence Gray, a 79-year-old retired political science professor, pleaded not guilty to charges of stealing valuable jewelry from his affluent acquaintances. The former professor, who was also associated with Washington’s elite social circles, faced accusations of trading at least seven precious stolen items.
According to the Associated Press, the stolen items included a variety of valuable pieces such as a gold, silver, and diamond pendant brooch, a pair of silver, gold, and diamond pendant earrings, and a two-color gold, cabochon ruby, and diamond compact. Prosecutors asserted that Gray made a significant sum, over $45,000, by selling these stolen items to a Manhattan auction house.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office outlined the charges against Gray, which include one count of scheme to defraud in the first degree, one count of criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree, and one count of grand larceny in the third degree. It was revealed that Gray allegedly committed the theft between 2016 and 2018 and subsequently sold the stolen jewelry through Doyle Auctioneers and Appraisers.
We indicted former professor Lawrence Gray for allegedly repeatedly defrauding multiple buyers by selling stolen jewelry. Learn more: https://t.co/nDiazYEM5g pic.twitter.com/PH7ra1p8dc
— Alvin Bragg (@ManhattanDA) August 15, 2023
A representative from Doyle Auction House declined to comment on the matter, referring to a corporate policy that prohibits discussing consignors. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. highlighted the significance of fair transactions in the marketplace and emphasized the importance of upholding the law.
Lawrence Gray’s defense attorney revealed that the retired professor voluntarily turned himself in to authorities on the morning of August 15, 2023. Gray appeared in court but did not communicate with reporters as he left. He was subsequently released without bail after surrendering his passport to authorities.
Notably, Lawrence Gray’s connection with the late Washington socialite and wine expert Jacqueline Quillen came to light. Following Jacqueline’s passing in 2021, her sons filed a lawsuit against Gray, accusing him of stealing valuable heirlooms, artworks, and cash from Quillen and her circle of friends, which included diplomats, bankers, and businessmen. Gray was also reportedly arrested in Rhode Island for allegedly stealing a diamond and sapphire brooch worth $32,000 during a wedding in Newport. The case related to the Rhode Island incident is ongoing.
Lawrence Gray’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 31, 2023. The legal proceedings continue as Gray faces charges related to the alleged thefts and transactions of stolen jewelry.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
