Over 1,000 Artifacts Stolen from Oakland Museum Storage in ‘Crime of Opportunity,’ Officials Say

Police in California are investigating the theft of more than 1,000 historical items from the Oakland Museum of California’s collection — including metalwork jewelry, Native American baskets, and even athletic trophies…

Andrew PowellOct 31, 20253 min read

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“We think the thieves found a way to enter the building, and they grabbed what they could easily find and snatch and get out of the building with,” she explained.

Among the stolen items are neckpieces by the late artist Florence Resnikoff, a pair of scrimshaw walrus tusks, and Native American baskets. Much of what was taken, Fogarty said, consisted of historical memorabilia from the 20th century — including campaign pins and athletic awards.

The Oakland Museum of California’s mission is to document the art, history, and natural environment of California, housing everything from 18th-century artwork to artifacts, photographs, and sound recordings. The museum has also hosted exhibitions highlighting the Black Power movement and student activism in the state.

John Romero, a retired Los Angeles Police Department captain who led the commercial crimes unit, told the Los Angeles Times that detectives are likely monitoring online resale platforms such as Craigslist and eBay — along with antique dealer networks.

“These people are interested in fast cash, not the full appraisal value,” Romero said. “They need to get rid of it quickly.”

This isn’t the first time the museum has been targeted. In 2013, a thief stole a Gold Rush-era jewelry box from the museum itself. It was later recovered with help from the public — a success Fogarty hopes can be repeated.

The Oakland Police Department said it is working closely with the FBI’s Art Crime Team, which specializes in art Theft and trafficking of cultural property.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Oakland Police at (510) 238-3951 or reach the FBI Art Crime Team online or by calling (800) 225-5324.