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Infamous artifact thief John Tillman granted day parole extension

A first edition copy of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species was returned to the library at MSVU in Halifax on October 29, 2015. This was one of thousands of collectible items stolen by John Tillman. Grey Butler/Global News

Notorious artifact thief John Tillman has been granted an extension of his day parole, court documents say.

Tillman, who’s gained a reputation by stealing precious artifacts from libraries, museums, antique dealers and individuals, was most recently sentenced in 2013 to seven years, 11 months in prison.

READ MORE: Back to its origin: First edition ‘On the Origin of Species’ book returned to MSVU library

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Tillman was denied full parole. Instead the parole board granted an extension of his three-day day parole. He is required to return to his residential facility each night.

According to the parole board, the day parole comes with a number of conditions, including having to report any intimate sexual and non-sexual relationships to his parole officer, not owning, using or possessing a computer or technological device, and not being self employed.

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The documents also outline Tillman’s history of violence towards partners, one of whom told police Tillman was a white supremacist, anti-feminist and a police hater.

READ MORE: Halifax art dealer describes how Tillman allegedly stole artifacts

The documents also show concern over Tillman’s history of aggressive behaviour and beliefs.

The board noted that while in prison, Tillman completed programming showing “positive change and relative stability.”  The board also noted that Tillman has developed insight into his pattern of offending.

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