Art Thief Stole $239K Worth Of Art From Sparta Home, Police Say

SPARTA, NJ — An art thief posing as a contractor stole more than $200,000 worth of artwork from a Sparta home, police said.

Francesco Bove, 64, of Brooklyn, is wanted for allegedly stealing $239,000 worth of artwork from a Sparta home, police said.

On July 10, a Sparta homeowner hired Bove to fix water damage from a leaking pipe in his home. He was unaware any art was missing until a friend called and asked why he was selling his pieces, police said.

During the investigation police found that several pieces were sold to art dealers and auction houses. They tried to contact Bove, but learned he had fled to Italy, police said.

A warrant was issued for his arrest, and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office approve extradition. Police say they then learned Bove was back in America; he is currently a wanted person on theft and burglary charges.

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