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Littleton museum reports bronze sculpture mutilated, head recovered; police investigating
Summary
Museum staff told the Arts & Culture Board that a 1998 bronze sculpture by Andrew Trivio was stolen and cut apart for metal; police have a suspect name but not yet an arrest, and museum staff will document damage for insurance and consult the artist on next steps.
Museum staff reported to the Littleton Arts & Culture Board on Nov. 13 that a public bronze sculpture from 1998 by artist Andrew Trivio was stolen and severely damaged.
Jenny Hankinson, a museum collections staffer, said staff were notified by police that the sculpture was missing and that, during site cleanup, crews "found the head." Hankinson said the piece appears to have been sawed or cut apart, likely for its metal value. She added that the police "do have a suspect" but that officers did not find the person at the suspected location.
Hankinson said there is no current appraisal for replacement value and staff plan to document the site with photographs and compile information for an insurance claim. She said museum staff will attempt to contact Trivio to discuss restoration or replacement options, and will continue to work with Littleton Police on the active investigation.
The board and museum staff discussed security and siting of public art after the incident. Hankinson said the museum will consider updated placement, stronger mounting and improved lighting for outdoor work to reduce vulnerability. Hudson Gardens and parks staff were thanked for identifying the missing piece.
The board did not take any formal action at the meeting; museum staff said they will update the board as the police investigation and insurance review proceed.
