Chapter 7 - Julian Cross denies theft
Julian hired counsel.
Then cooperated partially.
His defense:
Amanda told him she had authority.
She was becoming Daniel’s wife.
She managed parts of the residence.
She said items were:
“To be deaccessioned after marriage.”
Deaccessioned.
A museum word used for private property.
Did Julian ask for proof?
Yes.
Amanda sent the forged authorization.
Did he verify with me?
No.
Why?
“She said Daniel did not want to be bothered during wedding week.”
That sounded exactly like something she would say.
Then consignment drafts.
Cross & Vale had prepared:
Preliminary private-sale packets.
No items physically received yet.
No buyers paid deposits.
Two potential buyers had expressed interest in photographs.
Could Julian still face criminal liability?
Yes, if prosecutors proved he knew Amanda lacked authority.
Messages became critical.
One from Julian:
If Daniel asks, what is our stated purpose?
Amanda:
Photography and condition reports.
Julian:
And if staff calls him?
Amanda:
They won’t. I’ll have his phone in Italy.
That was bad.
Another:
You’re sure none of this is marital-property restricted?
Amanda:
Once I’m his wife, no one will question me moving household pieces.
Julian:
Questioning and ownership are different things.
He knew there was a distinction.
Then:
I’m not touching anything with clear family provenance until I see paper.
Amanda sent forged authorization after that.
Did Julian believe it?
May you like
Maybe.
The case would not treat him as automatically equal to Amanda.
