Ep 7. Art for the Taking

Crime Inc. is an American television series that explores the world of organized crime, examining the people, organizations, and events that fuel the criminal underworld. Season 2 episode 7, titled "Art for the Taking," delves into the murky world of art theft and the criminal networks that profit from it.

The episode begins with a dramatic reenactment of a daring art heist. In the middle of the night, a team of sophisticated thieves breaks into a museum and steals a valuable painting. The theft is carefully planned and executed, with the thieves bypassing multiple layers of security to make off with their prize. The painting is worth millions on the black market, and the thieves know exactly where to sell it to maximize their profits.

From there, the episode takes us behind the scenes of the world of stolen art. We meet art thieves, art dealers, and investigators, each with their own unique perspectives on the industry. We learn about the methods used by thieves to steal art, and the ways in which they launder their stolen goods to avoid detection.

The episode also explores the role of art dealers in the world of art theft. While many dealers are legitimate operators who source their art ethically, there is a darker side to the industry. Some dealers are willing to turn a blind eye to the provenance of the art they purchase, knowing full well that it may have been stolen. These unscrupulous dealers are willing to pay top dollar for stolen art, making it all the more attractive for thieves.

Throughout the episode, we see the devastating impact that art theft can have on individuals and communities. We hear from victims of art theft, who have lost precious works that were often irreplaceable. We also learn about the impact that art theft can have on cultural heritage, as entire communities are robbed of their artistic and historical treasures.

Despite the grim subject matter, the episode is filled with fascinating insights into the world of art crime. We learn about the techniques used by investigators to track down stolen pieces, and we hear about some of the most notorious art thefts in history. We also see the intersection between art theft and other forms of organized crime, such as drug trafficking and money laundering.

Overall, "Art for the Taking" is a gripping episode of Crime Inc. that offers a unique insight into the world of art crime. It is a sobering reminder of the often-hidden criminal networks that operate around us, and the devastating impact that they can have. At the same time, it is a testament to the skill and perseverance of investigators and law enforcement officials who work tirelessly to combat these crimes and protect our cultural heritage.