On this day, Oct. 29, in 1964, three thieves, including surfing champion Jack Murphy, stole the Star of India and other gems from the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
In what was dubbed the “Jewel Heist of the Century,” the thieves unlocked a bathroom window during open hours and climbed in that night. The alarm for the golf-ball-size Star of India sapphire didn’t work because the battery was dead. In all, the thieves swiped 22 gems.
Within 48 hours, police captured the thieves. Known as Murph the Surf, Murphy was a former violin prodigy, national surfing champion, tennis pro and movie stunt man.
The Star of India was found later in a Miami bus station locker. The thieves were sentenced to three years in prison.
In 1968, Murphy was sent to prison, this time for life, for killing a woman who was found in a South Florida creek near the body of another woman.
Murphy became a born-again Christian and eventually was paroled. Now 70, Murphy ministers to prisoners.
– Scott McCabe
