Forensic Science Approaches to Art and Archaeology

The FBI assess that networks responsible for the illicit flow of stolen antiquities into the US operate like other criminal enterprises. Artifacts move through networks comprised of five types of individuals: looters, local dealers, shipping facilitators, international dealers and US buyers, who knowingly or unknowingly purchase artifacts with dubious origins. These networks destroy cultural patrimony of source countries, benefit financially, and provide material support for terrorist groups.