Dali Works Sold

On eBay Turn

Out To Be Fake

AP-1/30 POLICE: DALI WORKS SOLD FROM PINE BLUFF TURN OUT TO BE FAKE dss

ROGERS, ARK. (AP) -— A woman from a city better known for its paper mill than its works on paper is charged with selling fake drawings she claimed were originals by surrealist Salvador Dali.

Donna Lynn Payne, 60, of Pine Bluff, Ark., is charged in Benton County with three felony counts of criminal simulation.

A probable cause affidavit says Payne advertised a Dali on eBay last year. A Rogers man was the high bidder at $2,750. The piece was supposed to be an original drawing in ink and charcoal.

The man sent Payne a cashiers check for $2,814 for the artwork, plus shipping.

The two conducted further transactions, at least one that included a work purported to be by Pablo Picasso. In all, the man sent Payne $10,978, court records show.

When the man sought to have the Dalis authenticated, he learned that they were fakes, according to court documents.

The man complained to Payne, who promised a refund but then cut off all contact, police said.

Payne was being held Friday on $10,000 bond at the Benton County Jail. She has an arraignment set for February 26 in Benton County Circuit Court.

Pine Bluff, in southeast Arkansas, is home to an International Paper Co. mill. The plant is in the process of being sold to New Zealand-based Carter Holt Harvey.