FBI Raids Coconut Grove Art Galleries Amidst Fraud Allegations

FBI Operation in Coconut Grove

• FBI agents conducted a court-authorized operation at two art galleries in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood.
• Investigators were present for over 12 hours, removing boxes and what appeared to be wrapped pieces of art from Miami Fine Art Gallery.
• The operation involved agents working to conceal the specifics of their efforts, with sky tents hovering over the scene.

Allegations Against Gallery Owner

• Records indicate the owner of Miami Fine Art Gallery, Leslie Roberts, is facing accusations of ripping off clients and selling fake artworks, specifically mentioning Warhols.
• Roberts has denied these allegations in statements to the New York Times and Coconut Grove Spotlight.

Past Legal Troubles

• In 2015, Leslie Roberts, identified as a fine art dealer, pleaded guilty to mail fraud charges.
• He was sentenced to 22 months in prison for using mail to sell forged and fraudulent copies of art, deceiving clients about their authenticity.

Current Investigation Details

• Agents were seen removing items from 3180 Commodore Plaza and a second art store at 3162.
• A spokesperson for the FBI confirmed it was "court authorized law enforcement activity."
• It remains unclear if the current operation is directly linked to the ongoing lawsuit against the gallery owner.