U.S. authorities made an announcement on Thursday revealing a significant development in the case of accused antiquities smuggler Douglas Latchford. They have obtained a $12 million forfeiture agreement from Latchford’s daughter, Julia Copleston. This comes after federal prosecutors identified Latchford as a key player in the extensive looting of ancient Cambodian temples over several decades.
Latchford was indicted in 2019, but unfortunately, he passed away before his trial, leaving the fate of any allegedly stolen artifacts and money in his possession uncertain.
The proposed forfeiture settlement, which is awaiting review by a district judge in the Southern District of New York, requires Copleston to forfeit $12 million and a 7th-century bronze statue depicting the four-armed goddess Durga. This statue is believed to have been stolen from Vietnam.
According to federal authorities, Latchford received at least $12 million by selling stolen and smuggled Southeast Asian antiquities to buyers and dealers in the United States. To facilitate the importation of these antiquities, Latchford provided false documents.
Some of the illegally acquired assets mentioned by federal prosecutors were previously exposed in a 2021 Washington Post profile of Latchford, based on the Pandora Papers leak.
In announcing the forfeiture agreement, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams stated, “For years, Douglas Latchford made millions from selling looted antiquities in the U.S. art market, stashing his ill-gotten gains offshore. This historic forfeiture action and settlement demonstrate our unwavering commitment to follow the money and combat the illicit trade in cultural patrimony.”
The settlement has garnered praise from art historians and researchers who have been tracking the trade in stolen Asian antiquities. Angela Chiu, an art historian, remarked, “The Pandora Papers investigation revealed the extent of Latchford’s wealth. In that context, forfeiting $12 million may seem modest, but this is a significant milestone. It sends a strong message that U.S. authorities are not just seizing artworks; they are going after the illicit profits amassed by these smugglers.”
Overall, this development marks a notable step forward in the fight against the illegal trade of cultural heritage and sends a clear message to those involved in such activities.
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