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Man Accused Of Selling Art Forgeries

Image courtesy of Tampa Police Department

Police say a Wesley Chapel man tried to pass off this sketch as a Picasso and sell it on eBay.

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By VALERIE KALFRIN and CHRIS ECHEGARAY, The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 17, 2008

Updated: 01/17/2008 12:22 am

TAMPA - Using the Internet to sell worthless art, a Wesley Chapel man bilked at least 40 people nationwide in the past 12 months, Tampa police said Wednesday.

Ethem Ulge, 44, of 26645 Winged Elm Drive, is accused of selling forged artwork allegedly by Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall on eBay, the online auction site. Ulge put the paintings up for bid, usually getting $1,500 to $2,000 each, Detective Bob Baxter said.

Tampa police learned of the scheme from New Jersey authorities, who got complaints from customers there. The sales occurred through a site in New Tampa that serves as a consignment store for eBay. The consignee, who was not identified, cooperated with police, Baxter said.

Baxter, a 13-year veteran with the property crimes division, posed as a bidder for a Picasso. He bid $1,500 and after the transaction, Baxter proved the artwork was fake by consulting art professionals.

An arrest warrant was issued and Ulge turned himself in Friday. He was released a day later on $22,500 bail, records show. He could not be reached for comment Wednesday night.

He was charged with felony scheme to defraud, grand theft, organized fraud and fraudulent use of personal information.

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