Operation Sirius

An investigation into the theft of LS Lowry paintings after a robbery at the home of an art dealer in Cheadle Hulme on May 3, 2007.

Officers from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (Titan), alongside officers from Merseyside Police and GMP, ran an investigation into the theft of LS Lowry paintings after a robbery at the home of an art dealer in Cheadle Hulme on May 3, 2007.

Malcolm Shield, aged 41, of Arncliffe Road, Halewood and Kevin Marlow, aged 29, of Halby Road, Bootle were arrested after detectives executed a warrant at a house on Arncliffe Road, Halewood on Tuesday, 26 July, 2011.

The pair were subsequently charged with handling stolen goods following the recovery of seven paintings from the house. A significant quantity of Class A and B drugs and some cash were also recovered from the property.

Shield was additionally charged with possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs while Marlow was also charged with possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.

Gerard Starkey, aged 50, of Southport Road, Bootle was also charged with handling stolen goods after a number of paintings were also discovered at a unit on Northfield Road, Bootle.

All three pleaded guilty to the charges and were jailed for a total of 16 years and three months.

Convicted