The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois announced the conviction of a man accused of stealing more than $3 million worth of property from Augusta National Golf Club.
The stolen property includes significant historical pieces, including three of the famous green jackets worn by Masters Tournament winners.
According to the press release, the man’s name is Richard Brendan Globensky and he lives in Evans, Georgia. The investigation revealed that between 2009 and 2022, Globensky stole from Augusta National while working there as a warehouse assistant.
The stolen items included Masters Tournament-related merchandise such as T-shirts, hats and watches.
However, Globensky also made off with valuable pieces of tournament history, including three green jackets, the one won by Gene Sarazen in 1935, one of two won by Ben Hogan, and one of four won by Arnold Palmer.
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The Green Jacket holds a special place not only at the Masters Tournament, but in the world of golf. It identifies the winners of this event, one of the most coveted titles in the sport.
After stealing these assets, Globensky allegedly sold them to a Florida-based online broker for a total of approximately $5.3 million.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that Globensky pleaded guilty and was sentenced to one year in prison. He must also pay more than $3.4 million in restitution to Augusta National.
No information was provided about the final disposition of the three stolen green jackets or whether they were recovered.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Hayes revealed some facts about the fate of Globensky’s illicit proceeds:
“The funds Globensky obtained enabled him and his spouse to live a lifestyle far beyond their means,” Hayes said. “The manner in which he spent the proceeds suggests greed was his primary motivation for committing the offense.”
According to prosecutors, Globensky spent $370,000 to buy five cars and a motorboat, $160,000 on a Walt Disney-themed vacation, $600,000 to build a residence and $32,000 on Louis Vuitton brand products.
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