Key Points
- Liam Middleton-Gomm, 36, pleaded guilty to burglary of Damien Hirst’s studio at Thames Wharf Studios in West London.
- The burglary occurred on June 30, 2025, and involved theft of items valued at approximately £5,210.
- Stolen items included paintings, electronics, apparel, and a baby stroller.
- Some stolen goods were recovered from the home of Leslie Gomm, 62, Liam’s father, who admitted handling stolen property.
- Both defendants are set to be sentenced on October 30, 2025, at Kingston Crown Court.
- Liam Middleton-Gomm also pleaded guilty to other burglaries and an attempted burglary in July 2025.
- Damien Hirst’s famous works include a preserved shark, a decaying cow’s head, and a diamond-encrusted skull.
- The burglary did not involve Hirst’s most priceless works, which were left untouched.
What Happened During the Burglary at Damien Hirst’s Studio?
Liam Middleton-Gomm unlawfully entered Damien Hirst’s Thames Wharf Studios in West London on June 30, 2025. The burglary resulted in the theft of valuables worth around £5,210, which included paintings, electronics, apparel, and even a baby stroller as reported by BBC News and Yahoo News on October 17, 2025. Notably, more valuable, iconic artworks were not taken during the break-in.
Who Are Liam Middleton-Gomm and Leslie Gomm?
Liam Middleton-Gomm, aged 36, is the man who pleaded guilty to the burglary charges at Kingston Crown Court on October 17, 2025. His father, Leslie Gomm, 62, also admitted to handling stolen goods linked to his son, which were found at Leslie’s home. Both men appeared together in court and are awaiting sentencing scheduled for October 30, 2025.
How Significant Was the Stolen Property?
The total stolen value was estimated at approximately £5,210. However, only about £500 worth of those items were recovered from Leslie Gomm’s home. The stolen goods consisted mostly of smaller valuables and not Hirst’s renowned, priceless pieces such as his preserved shark or diamond skull.
What Have Court Proceedings Revealed about the Case?
At Kingston Crown Court, Liam Middleton-Gomm pleaded guilty not only to the June 30 burglary of Hirst’s studio but also to related burglaries and an attempted burglary that took place in July 2025. His father’s admission of handling stolen goods indicates a family involvement in the aftermath of the crime. Sentencing is scheduled on October 30, 2025.
How Has Damien Hirst’s Legacy Been Referenced?
Damien Hirst, a celebrated contemporary artist born in Bristol and raised in Leeds, is known for provocative works like the preserved shark in formaldehyde, a cow’s head, and the diamond-encrusted skull. Despite the burglary, his most famous and high-value artwork was not among the stolen items, according to reports.
