A rare 1694 Giovanni Grancino violin, valued at $650,000, was stolen from a student at the University of Southern California (USC) on April 2 and has since been recovered by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The violin, a piece of significant historical value, was taken from the music department while a student was practicing.
Detective Stephanie Gutierrez led the investigation. She expressed her concern for the instrument’s safety, emphasizing its irreplaceable nature. “They can’t replace this,” she said, highlighting the importance of finding it. The violin was reported missing after the student left it unattended while studying.
The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Jonathan Saldana, allegedly followed the student into the secure facility after she used her access card to enter. The door’s slow closing mechanism allowed him to slip in unnoticed. Once inside, he took the violin and its case before leaving the campus around 5:30 p.m., also stealing a scooter on his way out.
Saldana was arrested on April 9, just a week after the theft, and charged with felony grand theft. He pleaded not guilty in court on April 11 and is currently being held at the Pitchess Detention Center. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 25.
The violin was found on April 10, just days after the theft, in an encampment near USC. It was returned in good condition, although a specialist will inspect it to confirm its state. Gutierrez noted that another homeless individual had taken the violin from Saldana but ultimately returned it after being approached by police.
This incident highlights not only the challenges of securing valuable items on campus but also the broader issue of homelessness in Los Angeles, as the investigation revealed that Saldana was living on the streets. The LAPD’s swift action in recovering the violin has been praised, and the case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting valuable property.