Police: Opera star von Stade’s stolen family heirlooms sold at Alameda auction

Police: Opera star’s stolen antiques auctioned off

ALAMEDA, California — Police are investigating the theft of a Grammy-nominated opera singer’s family heirlooms that they say were stolen and sold at a Northern California auction house.

Alameda police Detective Craig Vreeland says singer Frederica von Stade is trying to recover more than $50,000 worth of antique china, wall sconces and other items sold at Michaan’s Auctions.

Vreeland says von Stade’s family discovered the property missing from an Alameda storage unit in October. The family learned the items ended up at the Alameda-based auction house after contacting area businesses specializing in antiques and collectibles.

Police say they arrested 47-year-old Kelly Lee Baslee on suspicion of possessing stolen property after she showed up at the auction house to try to sell more items. She has denied wrongdoing.

Police say Michaan’s is working with the family to help recover the stolen items.

Information from: The Oakland Tribune.