Man Sentenced for Stealing Masters Memorabilia Worth Millions

Introduction to the Case

A former Augusta National Golf Club employee has learned his fate after stealing millions of dollars worth of Masters golf tournament memorabilia, including one of Arnold Palmer’s green jackets, and knowingly selling the merchandise. On Wednesday, a federal judge sentenced Richard Globensky, of Georgia, to one year behind bars. The sentencing comes 10 months after Globensky, now 40, pleaded guilty in Chicago federal court to transporting stolen goods.

The Sentence and Restitution

In addition to the prison sentence, Globensky must pay Augusta National $3,448,842 in restitution.
Richard Globensky, of Georgia, walks out of the Dirksen Federal Courthouse after pleading guilty to transporting stolen golf merchandise and memorabilia from the Augusta National Golf Club on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (Ashlee Rezin/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)

Details of the Crime

According to prosecutors, Globensky began working as a warehouse assistant with Augusta National in 2007. Federal prosecutors said the items—stolen between 2009 and 2022—included historic memorabilia such as green jackets and tickets to Masters tournaments in the 1930s, as well as T-shirts, mugs, and chairs. The stolen jackets included those Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, and Gene Sarazen wore.

The Scheme and Its Aftermath

Federal prosecutors said Globensky took items from the warehouse for sellers in Florida, who, in turn, resold the items online at a "significant" uptick in pricing. The scheme lasted over a decade and earned Globensky over $5 million. Prosecutors said a Chicago collector purchased at least one of the stolen items.

Spending the Proceeds

Throughout the crime, which prosecutors say spanned six years, Globensky spent more than $370,000 to purchase five vehicles and a motorboat and more than $160,000 for Walt Disney-themed vacations and activities. Federal prosecutors added that Globensky spent nearly $600,000 on constructing a custom-built residence in Georgia and $32,000 at luxury retailer Louis Vuitton.

Announcement of the Sentence

Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, announced the sentence.  The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Richard Globensky marks the end of a long and intricate scheme involving the theft and sale of valuable Masters memorabilia. The case highlights the importance of protecting historical and cultural artifacts from theft and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

FAQs

• Q: How long was Richard Globensky sentenced to prison?
  • A: One year.
• Q: How much restitution does Globensky have to pay to Augusta National?
  • A: $3,448,842.
• Q: What items were stolen by Globensky?
  • A: Historic memorabilia including green jackets, tickets to Masters tournaments, T-shirts, mugs, and chairs.
• Q: How much did Globensky earn from the scheme?
  • A: Over $5 million.