North Carolina Man Charged After Trying to Sell ’96 Olympic Torch

A North Carolina man has been charged with two theft crimes for allegedly stealing an Olympic torch used during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. The 43-year-old man has been charged with felony larceny and obtaining property by false pretense.

The man was caught after tying to sell the Olympic torch for $200 to a pawn shop despite an estimated value of more than $15,000. The suspicious activity caught the attention of police who arrested the man. He has since been released in exchange of a promise to appear for his court hearing set for today in Asheville.

News reports of the man’s arrest don’t make clear how the 43-year-old suspect stole the 1996 Olympic torch. It’s possible that the torch was stolen from another owner or from the actual Olympic Games.

Following North Carolina theft or larceny charges, it’s important to work with a criminal defense lawyer who can protect your rights. A theft crimes attorney may be able to help you avoid jail time and serious consequences after criminal charges.

Source: Fox Sports “Stolen Olympic torch sold; man charged,” 1/2/2012