Tom Petty's family has taken legal action against RR Auction house after announcing the sale of personal property of Petty’s that they believe has been stolen from a secured archive based on prior knowledge, staff observations and documentation.
In a statement they say, “We believe RR Auction, headquartered in Boston, is offering stolen Tom Petty memorabilia with a completely false provenance inaccurate to fact and in complete denial of clear evidence they have been presented. They will not disclose the cosigner who has provided these items or how they were acquired. But they are clearly stolen, there is no other word for it... These items have irreplaceable sentimental and educational value for the family and legacy of Tom Petty and we look forward to their safe return.”
The family has asked that the items be returned immediately and that fans and collectors refrain from participating in this auction until the matter is settled to avoid getting further involved in this legal action.
Among the missing items are jackets, hats, vests, boots, shirts, shoes, autographed items and recent exclusive limited-editions easily traced back to family members and more.