Élysée Palace Staffer to Stand Trial for Theft of State Silverware

A former staff member at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French President, will face trial for allegedly stealing valuable silverware and porcelain reserved for state banquets. The employee, identified in court documents only as Thomas M., is accused of taking the items from within the palace itself [32641][32442].

The suspect, who served as a silver steward or "silverware keeper," is alleged to have stolen solid silver cutlery and high-quality tableware used for formal events hosting foreign leaders and dignitaries [32641][31744]. The thefts are believed to have occurred over a period of several years before being discovered during a routine inventory check [31744].

According to judicial authorities, the estimated value of the stolen goods ranges between €15,000 and €40,000 [31698]. The investigation suggests that the stolen items were subsequently offered for sale on online auction platforms [31600]. The Paris prosecutor's office has ordered the case to proceed to trial, where the suspect will face charges of stealing property from a public institution [32641][32442].

The case has highlighted a significant security breach at the heart of French political power. The Élysée Palace has not issued a public statement regarding the impending legal proceedings [32442]. The trial will determine the employee's guilt or innocence [31744].