Stolen Wizard of Oz Ruby Slippers Found After 13 Years

In 2005, the first slippers from the Wizard of Oz that Judy Garland wore in the film were stolen from a museum dedicated to the actress in her hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. They were taken when a (still yet) unknown burglar broke in through the museum window and fled with them. At last, after 13 years, the original pair has finally been found, US authorities affirm. The search still continues for the thief’s identity as authorities and the police investigate who stole the famous piece of movie memorabilia. North Dakota United States Attorney Christopher Myers said, “We reached the first goal, the recovery, and it is a great day. However, we are not done.” The stolen slippers are one of the four known pairs that Judy Garland wore in her role as Dorothy in the classic film.

In 2005, an unnamed collector even offered 1 million dollars as a reward for the stolen slipper’s location and the thief’s identity. However, the reward expired on the 10th anniversary of the robbery. In the press interview on September 4th, 2018, no specific details were given as to where and how they found the slippers, or whether or not the shoes’ recovery is related to any tip-offs. FBI special agent Joan Sanborn said, “We have gathered lots of information on this case. We believe there are lots more to give.”

The crime was described as a simple smash-and-grab, with the glass display case shattered and the slipper seized. Almost no evidence was left behind, neither footprints nor fingerprints, and the surveillance camera was not working on the night of the robbery. Still, the museum kept the empty podium labeled “Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers,” since the robbery. In 2015, a documentary was even released about the theft—Who Stole The Ruby Slippers?

Grand Rapids Police Chief Scott Johnson said that “they are more than just a pair of shoes, the slippers. They are an enduring symbol of the power of belief.” The slippers which are considered to be valued for as much as 5 million USD are at last finally found and safe.

The Wizard of Oz is one of the many classics that I adore. I played the role of Dorothy in a middle school musical at my previous school and I am more than happy that the stolen slippers had at last been found. Hopefully, this case shows other museums that even with security, a robbery as quick as this one, was is still possible.

For more information, visit: The Independent, Action News, Kare 11 & The Hollywood Reporter