Climbers Seek Return of Engagement Ring Seized During Empire State Building Stunt

Three weeks after a high-profile unauthorized climb of the Empire State Building, the couple involved says they are still waiting for the return of personal items seized by law enforcement. Angelina Nikolau, 33, stated on social media this week that her engagement ring remains in police custody, alongside a banner the pair unfurled from the skyscraper’s spire on July 1.

Nikolau and her fiancé, 32-year-old Ivan Kuznetsov—who also goes by the name Ivan Beerkus—were taken into custody shortly after completing the ascent. The duo, who gained public attention through the 2024 Netflix documentary *Skywalkers: A Love Story*, now face a series of charges including burglary, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, and criminal tampering.

Prosecutors have alleged that the climb was intended as a romantic gesture, with court documents suggesting Kuznetsov proposed to Nikolau while perched 1,450 feet above West 34th Street. However, the stunt drew sharp criticism from officials. During court proceedings, Assistant District Attorney Anthony Giliberti argued that the pair’s actions posed a significant danger not only to themselves but also to New York City residents and emergency responders.

Following their arrest, the case was referred to the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. As of Tuesday, it remains unclear when or if the seized property will be returned to the couple. Representatives for the District Attorney’s office could not be reached for comment regarding the status of the evidence.