A federal judge has officially dismissed all charges against Jerry Hal Saliterman, a 77-year-old man from Minnesota, who was accused of concealing a stolen pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the classic film “The Wizard of Oz.” This decision was prompted by the announcement of Saliterman’s death on Sunday.

Background of the Case

Saliterman had been unwell, suffering from chronic lung disease among other health issues, which ultimately led to his hospitalization. He was scheduled to change his plea to guilty in January, but the hearing was indefinitely postponed due to his declining health.

According to federal prosecutor Matthew Greenley, the notification of Saliterman’s passing was received in a one-page motion presented to the court. U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz subsequently granted the dismissal of all pending charges.

Health Problems Prior to Death

In early January, Saliterman was hospitalized for severe mobility issues and sepsis. He made a court appearance via video from his hospital room just days after entering the hospital.

His attorney, John Brink, later informed the court that Saliterman was moved to a hospice facility, citing a poor prognosis. Documentation indicated he was battling severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Parkinson’s disease.

The Ruby Slippers Theft

The iconic ruby slippers were stolen in 2005 from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Hollywood collector Michael Shaw had lent his prized pair to the museum prior to the theft, which was executed by Terry Jon Martin, who later conveyed that he initially believed the shoes were adorned with jewels for increased value.

The slippers remained missing for nearly 13 years before being recovered by the FBI in 2018. They eventually sold at auction for a historic sum of $32.5 million in December, according to Heritage Auctions.

Despite a concerted effort, the Judy Garland Museum failed to reclaim the slippers at the auction, despite a financial backing of $100,000 from state legislators.

Current Status of Related Cases

Terry Jon Martin, the initial thief, was also involved in legal repercussions. He pled guilty in 2023 and was sentenced to time served due to his deteriorating health condition. Meanwhile, only three pairs of the ruby slippers from the filming of “The Wizard of Oz” are confirmed to still exist.

Garland, born Frances Gumm, spent her early childhood in Grand Rapids before achieving fame and passing away in 1969. The Judy Garland Museum holds the largest collection of memorabilia related to both her career and the film.