Art Fraud

 

NEW YORK(AP).- 


       A New York City manwho was victimized in an art fraud but then committed his own forgery has been sentenced to 60 days in jail.


     Richard Silver paid$84,000 in restitution before his sentencing Tuesday in Manhattan.


     The 44-year-old real estatebroker, photographer and part-time art dealer pleaded guilty last week to misdemeanor forgery and false-filing charges.


     Silver unwittinglybought what turned out to be fake prints by British artist Damien Hirst. The Irvine, Calif.-based seller went to prison for the scam.


     Silver admitted he thenfalsified appraisals as he resold thepieces. Defense lawyer Vinoo Varghesesays Silver altered legitimate appraisals for some prints to match other works so he could ship them quickly.


     Silver also admitted hedidn't report the sale profits on statetaxes.



NOTE:  Odd story, this. I always thought it would be Damien Hirst who wouldbe sent to jail for art fraud. (Apologies to my friend with the very small DamienHirst spot painting, which I like and whichonce again proves that brevity is the soulof wit and exceptionsoften prove rules.)