Trial Continues Without Confessions in Celtic Gold Theft Case

The trial concerning the audacious theft of a Celtic gold collection from a museum has continued, with the accused remaining silent despite encouragement from the court. Four men are currently facing charges related to the November 2022 heist that saw over 2,100-year-old gold artifacts stolen from the Celtic-Roman Museum in Manching, Germany.

The theft involved a significant collection discovered in 1999, which became the main exhibit of the museum. The collection, consisting of nearly 500 coins, remains largely missing, with only a few items recovered, leading to ongoing concerns among authorities and the public.

Since the trial began in January, the defendants--three men from the Schwerin area and one from Berlin--have not provided any admissions of guilt, even after discussions behind closed doors regarding potential sentencing outcomes should they choose to confess. The presiding judge, Konrad Kliegl, suggested that depending on their cooperation, sentences could range from three and a half to nine years. Additionally, the court indicated that returning the stolen gold could lead to a reduction in their sentences.

While the defense attorneys of three of the accused expressed some reservations about the court's proposal, they did not outright reject the possibility of a plea agreement. One attorney emphasized that their client would not admit to the allegations. The discussions around potential agreements are expected to continue, as the prosecution has indicated a willingness to consider a resolution.

The trial, initially anticipated to conclude by June, has now been extended, with sessions scheduled into October. The four defendants have been in custody since their arrest in July 2023. The Berlin suspect was found in possession of small gold nuggets believed to be part of the stolen treasure, further complicating the case.

The current status of the remaining coins is unclear, raising ongoing questions about the fate of this invaluable historical collection. As investigations proceed, authorities remain hopeful for a resolution that not only brings justice but also restores the lost treasures to their rightful place.