FBI Seizes Artwork from Miami Fine Art Gallery Amidst Forgery Allegations

FBI Activity in Coconut Grove

• FBI agents were observed conducting "court-authorized law enforcement activity" at the Miami Fine Art Gallery in Coconut Grove.
• The operation involved agents entering and exiting the business throughout the afternoon, with efforts to conceal their activities using paper on windows and tents.
• A neighboring restaurant owner reported closing his business due to the FBI's presence, which he observed starting as early as 9 a.m.

Gallery Owner's Past and Allegations

• Public records indicate the gallery owner, Leslie Roberts, pleaded guilty to mail fraud in 2015 for selling forged and fraudulent paintings.
• Roberts was sentenced to 22 months in prison for his previous conviction.
• Recent reports from The New York Times and Coconut Grove Spotlight allege Roberts has sold fake Andy Warhol paintings, claims he has denied.

Unconfirmed Nature of Investigation

• The FBI has not confirmed the specific reasons for the activity or whether it is related to the forgery allegations or ongoing lawsuits.
• Authorities have not specified if the business is the subject of an investigation or if the activity pertains to art.