A Minnesota man is going to plead guilty to the theft of the ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland. As many know, the famous ruby slippers worn by Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” were stolen in 2005 and found in 2018. 76-year-old Terry Jon Martin has had a “crisis of conscience” and is confessing to the crime.
The shoes were previously being kept at the Judy Garland Museum in the actress’s hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. When they were stolen in 2005 the case became so huge that the FBI got involved. The FBI were able to recover the slippers in 2018, but it was still a mystery as to who stole them.
Martin was arrested this year in an unrelated case of theft of major artwork. His attorney, Dane DeKrey, claims Martin’s failing health was a deciding factor in coming clean. “I think Terry is facing his own mortality and I think when people are reaching that point in their life, they cut through the pleasantries and talk turkey,” DeKery said.
Did anyone have “Person responsible for 2005 theft of ruby slippers comes clean” on their 2023 Bingo card? We certainly didn’t. At least the truth will finally be released, even if it took almost 20 years for the man to come clean.
The shoes from the famous 1939 musical were insured for $1 million. Today they are valued at an estimated $3.5 million. Perhaps the magic from the movie transferred into the increased value. All it would’ve taken is three clicks of the heels.
