Crystal Man Accused in Ruby Slipper Heist Could Face More Charges
A Crystal man accused of keeping the ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” movie buried in his back yard for a number of years could face additional charges.
The Crystal Police Department has asked the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office to file charges against Jerry Saliterman, 76, for organized retail theft, conspiracy to commit theft, receiving stolen property and domestic assault.
During the investigation of the ruby slippers, the FBI and Crystal police located $400,000 worth of stolen artwork and merchandise at Saliterman’s home that police allege came from various businesses throughout the metro.
Jerry Saliterman. Photo courtesy: Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office
Investigators also found tools “consistent with the operation of a retail crime ring” and ledgers detailing the sale of stolen goods on eBay.
Law enforcement also accuses Saliterman of assault and harassment against his wife to ensure she didn’t report his involvement in organized crime to police.
Anyone with additional information should call the Crystal Police Department at (763) 531-1014.
The ruby slippers were stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, MN in 2005. Investigators say they were buried in Saliterman’s yard in Crystal for a number of years.
