BOSTON, Sept. 11 -- Talks that officials hope will lead to the recovery of some $200 million in art stolen from a Boston museum seven years ago appear to be at a standstill. Federal prosecutors say they want proof before entering into any full immunity deals with two men who claim to be able to broker the return of the masterpieces stolen from the Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum.
More talks are scheduled today at the federal building in Boston with the men, one of whom reportedly rejected partial immunity because he feared entrapment by federal agents. Antiques dealer William Youngworth III and imprisoned art thief Myles Connor Jr. met Wednesday with the U.S. Attorney's office to discuss their claims. Youngworth reportedly walked out of an earlier meeting because prosecutors would only offer him 'partial immunity' in exchange for his help. Youngworth is seeking complete immunity from unrelated state charges, as well as immunity related to the recovery of the stolen art, which includes rare paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer. He also wants immunity for Connor, Connor's early release from prison, and a $5 million reward. U.S. Attorney Donald Stern says there will be no negotiations about what the government is willing to do until Youngworth provides 'concrete and credible evidence.' Youngworth says he fears the FBI is trying to entrap him. He says the feds 'are so intent on busting me and Myles, it's clear they just don't care about that art.' The museum, meanwhile, says it remains hopeful that the paintings will eventually be returned. ---
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