Anaheim has experienced the loss of two sculptures with a combined value exceeding $2 million, as CBS News Los Angeles reported. The sculptures, works of Sir Daniel Winn, were stolen from an Anaheim warehouse located near the intersection of Tustin Avenue and the 91 Freeway. According to authorities, the theft took place between June 7 and June 9, when the business owner discovered the artworks missing upon his return to the warehouse.
Each of the stolen sculptures stands over eight feet tall, one weighing approximately 2,000 pounds and the other at a more substantial 4,000 pounds. Investigators have deduced from the size and weight of the sculptures that heavy machinery, such as a forklift, was likely employed to perpetrate the crime. This detail, along with the selective nature of the theft, suggests a level of premeditation. "Due to the nature of the items that were stolen, it looks like somebody knew they were there and went there with a purpose," Sgt. Matt Sutter said in a statement obtained by KTLA. It was noted that other artworks were present in the warehouse but remained untouched.
The stolen sculptures are considered landmark pieces in Sir Daniel Winn's oeuvre, known both for their substantial market value and their heft. Winn is celebrated as an artist and filmmaker, and these specific pieces were noted for their distinguishing place in his collection. Due to their large scale and prominence, the stolen items would stand out, making their movement or sale a risky endeavor for the culprits.
Police are now calling upon local businesses to take preventative measures against such thefts, recommending the installation of surveillance cameras or security systems. With the industrial area typically being a quiet part of Anaheim, the incident has raised alarms about the safety of high-value items stored in such zones. Anaheim Police have launched a full investigation and are inviting any individuals with information about the theft or the location of the sculptures to reach out and contact Anaheim PD detectives. The public's cooperation could prove vital in recovering these significant pieces and preventing future incidents of a similar nature.
