Man who pled guilty to stealing ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz to serve no jail time

Photo by: WDAY Radio Staff
Photo by: WDAY Radio Staff

(Grand Rapids, MN) -- Federal prosecutors aren't recommending prison time for the man who stole the Wizard of Oz ruby slippers from a northern Minnesota museum.  

76-year-old Terry Jon Martin pleaded guilty in October, admitting that he used a sledgehammer to steal the slippers worn by actress Judy Garland. He said he got rid of the slippers after realizing they weren't made of real rubies. A report reveals that both prosecutors and Martin's defense team agree he shouldn't spend anymore time behind bars due to his declining health. Instead, they're recommending house arrest.  

Martin has chronic COPD and is expected to live less than six months.