Author charged with stealing Montana historical artifacts to sell on eBay

Author Brian D’Ambrosio, known for his books about Montana, has been charged with stealing historical artifacts from the Montana Historical Society and attempting to sell them on eBay. According to federal prosecutors, D’Ambrosio visited the museum multiple times under the guise of conducting research for a book, but instead made off with several valuable items, including letters by Nancy Russell and stock certificates from the 1800s. The author allegedly listed these items on eBay as his own, leading to his arrest when an undercover FBI agent expressed interest in purchasing them. D’Ambrosio has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The museum is working with authorities and reviewing its security measures in response to the incident.

Introduction

In a shocking turn of events, journalist and author Brian D’Ambrosio has been charged with stealing priceless historical artifacts from the Montana Historical Society with the intention of selling them on eBay. D’Ambrosio, known for his extensive writing on Montana and its people, is accused of taking valuable documents during his visits to the museum under the guise of conducting research for a book. This article will delve into the accusations against D’Ambrosio, the items stolen from the Montana Historical Society, the scheme to sell the stolen artifacts on eBay, the undercover FBI operation that uncovered the crime, D’Ambrosio’s plea of not guilty, his background, and the cooperation of the Montana Historical Society in this investigation.

Accusations against Brian D’Ambrosio

Federal prosecutors have charged Brian Anthony D’Ambrosio, a journalist and author specializing in books about Montana, with stealing priceless documents from the Montana Historical Society. It is alleged that D’Ambrosio visited the museum on multiple occasions between 2022 and 2023, posing as a researcher for a book. However, during these visits, he allegedly surreptitiously took numerous valuable artifacts, including letters written by Nancy Russell to her husband, the infamous frontier painter C.M. Russell, as well as stock certificates for companies founded in Montana in the 1800s and programs for historical events.

Items stolen from Montana Historical Society

The stolen artifacts from the Montana Historical Society are of significant historical value. The letters written by Nancy Russell provide an intimate glimpse into the personal life of C.M. Russell, shedding light on his artistic inspiration and the dynamics of their relationship. The stock certificates showcase the economic activities and entrepreneurship in Montana during the 1800s, offering insights into the state’s early development. The historical event programs capture moments of importance and significance in Montana’s past, preserving a record of cultural and social events.

Selling the stolen artifacts on eBay

Court documents indicate that D’Ambrosio attempted to sell the stolen artifacts on the popular online marketplace, eBay. He listed the items for sale, giving the impression that they rightfully belonged to him and that he had the legal authority to sell them. It is believed that D’Ambrosio was seeking to profit from his criminal activities by exploiting the interest and demand for historical artifacts among collectors and enthusiasts on eBay.

Undercover FBI agent uncovers the crime

The scheme came to light when an undercover FBI agent engaged in correspondence with D’Ambrosio regarding the purchase of some of the stolen artifacts. The undercover agent played a crucial role in gathering evidence against D’Ambrosio, ultimately leading to his apprehension and arrest. The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of law enforcement in identifying and apprehending those involved in the illegal trade of historical artifacts.

D’Ambrosio pleads not guilty

During his arraignment in Great Falls, Montana, D’Ambrosio pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. His defense maintains that he is innocent of the accusations of stealing and attempting to sell the historical artifacts. D’Ambrosio was released without bail while awaiting trial. The case will proceed as D’Ambrosio’s legal team prepares his defense and the prosecution gathers evidence to support their allegations.

Background on Brian D’Ambrosio

Brian D’Ambrosio, originally from Santa Fe, New Mexico, resided in Montana for a significant period and has contributed to various newspapers in the state. He has established himself as an accomplished writer, particularly known for his works focusing on Montana, including books such as “Montana Murders: Notorious and Unsolved,” “Montana Entertainers: Famous and Almost Forgotten,” and “Shot in the Dark: A History of Big Sky Cinema.” Moreover, D’Ambrosio has written biographies of notable figures like actor Charles Bronson, as well as books centered around the sport of boxing and the exploits of National Hockey League enforcers.

Cooperation from Montana Historical Society

The Montana Historical Society has been actively cooperating with authorities throughout the investigation. The museum, based in Helena, Montana, has reviewed its security protocols and procedures in light of this incident. The cooperation of the Montana Historical Society demonstrates their commitment to the preservation and protection of historical artifacts and their willingness to work with law enforcement agencies to uphold the integrity of their collection.

Conclusion

The case of Brian D’Ambrosio, charged with stealing historical artifacts from the Montana Historical Society, highlights the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage. The accusations against D’Ambrosio, the stolen items, and the attempt to sell them on eBay have shed light on the illicit trade of historical artifacts. The undercover operation by the FBI, D’Ambrosio’s plea of not guilty, and his background as a writer specializing in Montana literature add intrigue to this case. The cooperation between law enforcement and the Montana Historical Society underscores the significance of collaboration in preserving and protecting historical artifacts for future generations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of the trial will determine the consequences faced by D’Ambrosio and the implications for the wider community of collectors, museums, and enthusiasts of Montana history.