Two Men Sentenced for Infamous Theft of Golden Toilet Artwork

James Sheen and Michael Jones were sentenced to two to four years for stealing a $6 million artwork, "America," by Maurizio Cattelan, from Winston Churchill's ancestral home. Despite careful planning, the thieves left a trail of evidence.

In a peculiar turn of events, the saga surrounding the audacious theft of a golden toilet has reached its conclusion. On June 14, 2025, two men involved in the 2019 burglary of an 18-carat toilet from Blenheim Palace in England were handed sentences ranging from two to four years in prison. The stolen artwork, known as “America” and created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, was valued at approximately $6 million and was ultimately believed to have been dismantled for its gold.

James Sheen, age 44, was identified as the mastermind of this bizarre heist. He pleaded guilty in April 2024 to several charges including burglary and conspiracy concerning the theft. At his sentencing, Sheen received a four-year imprisonment term. Meanwhile, 39-year-old Michael Jones, who organized reconnaissance trips to the palace prior to the heist, was sentenced to 27 months following his conviction for burglary after a trial held earlier in March.

Prosecutors commented on the unusual nature of the case, emphasizing the rarity of prosecuting such high-profile burglaries in stately homes. Solicitor Shan Saunders remarked on the level of planning evident in the scheme, noting, "Despite the meticulous preparations, the criminals left a substantial amount of evidence behind." The case has drawn attention for its unique premise, culminating in convictions for an audacious theft that many would find hard to believe.