Jewelry Designer Martin Katz’s Handbags Were Burglarized for $2.5 Million
Renowned jewelry designer Martin Katz, known for creating custom pieces for Hollywood royalty, became the target of a high-stakes burglary at his home. Thieves made off with a haul of luxury handbags, including rare Hermès collector’s items valued at several hundred thousand dollars each.
Details of the Burglary
Katz returned home late Tuesday evening to find a window smashed and numerous valuables missing. Among the stolen items were high-end handbags equipped with tracking devices—a crucial factor in resolving the case.
Los Angeles law enforcement officers quickly responded, scouring the property for the perpetrators, but the burglars had already fled. The trackers on the stolen bags, however, led police to a downtown L.A. location, resulting in the arrest of two suspects.
International Crime Ring
Authorities identified the culprits as members of a South American burglary crew, known for flying internationally to commit high-profile heists before fleeing back to their home countries.
Statement from the Katz Family
Josh Flagg, star of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles and a close family friend, issued a statement clarifying events on behalf of Martin Katz and his wife, Kelly. According to Flagg, the burglary occurred while the couple was dining separately. Katz was alerted by his security company about a triggered alarm. Guards responded quickly, arriving just as the thieves were escaping the primary bedroom with suitcases full of valuables.
Flagg noted that earlier reports overstated the value of the stolen goods, suggesting it was in the hundreds of thousands, not millions. Katz informed police of the AirTag devices on his luggage, which helped lead to the swift arrest of the suspects.
A Hollywood Twist
Martin Katz has long been a favorite of Hollywood stars, having crafted bespoke jewelry for the likes of Kim Kardashian, Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, and Jennifer Aniston. This high-profile burglary, while unsettling, had a fortunate ending thanks to quick police action and innovative tracking technology.
Law enforcement’s rapid response in recovering Katz’s belongings demonstrates an impressive feat, earning them a round of applause worthy of a red carpet moment.
