Pennsylvania Burglary Ring: Three Out of Nine Members Plead Guilty to Federal Charges

Pennsylvania Burglary Ring

Between 1999 and 2019, the thefts orchestrated by the burglary ring struck museums and other institutions in a string of 18 daring robberies.

The criminals targeted art, sports memorabilia, antique weapons, and other valuable items from museums and institutions in six states, leaving a trail of stolen masterpieces that included works by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock, U.S. News reported.

These audacious acts included the snatching of iconic artworks from the Everhart Museum in Scranton, which included prized creations by the legendary artists’ Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.

Alongside these valuable art pieces, antique firearms and precious sports championship rings, belts, and trophies were also taken from various establishments, further escalating the magnitude of the stolen loot.

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Pennsylvania Burglary Ring Guilty Pleas

Federal prosecutors in Pennsylvania brought charges against nine individuals, all Lackawanna County residents, believed to be involved in this extensive burglary ring.

Among the guilty parties in the burglary ring are Ralph Parry, 45, and Francesco “Frank” Tassiello, 50, who recently pleaded guilty to various charges, including conspiracy to commit theft of major artwork, concealment, and disposal of a major artwork, and interstate transportation of stolen property.

Additionally, Daryl Rinker, 50, admitted his role in the conspiracy to commit concealment and disposal of major artwork and interstate transportation of stolen property.

During the investigation of the burglary ring case, it was revealed that Daryl Rinker was associated with several stolen firearms, including a valuable 1860 rifle estimated to be worth an astounding $250,000. These weapons were seized by authorities and are currently under the custody of the FBI, adding to the evidence against the burglary ring and its members.

Ralph Parry and Francesco Tassiello, involved as drivers in the criminal activities, expressed their remorse by pleading guilty to their respective charges. Daryl Rinker, while not directly engaged in the actual thefts, also pleaded guilty to his involvement in the concealment and disposal of stolen property related to the major artworks.

As the case of the burglary ring unfolds, plea hearings for two other defendants are scheduled to take place soon, while three others will face trial later this year. Unfortunately, one person remains at large, posing a challenge for the authorities to bring them to justice.

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