History expert pleads guilty to stealing documents

The pair compiled lists of historical figures, often noting the market value of documents signed by them, and Savedoff identified collections with valuable documents that they could target, according to the plea.

A weary-looking Landau appeared in a suit at Tuesday's court hearing wearing an eye patch and using a cane. He listed the various medications he was taking for the judge, but noted that none was affecting his ability to understand the proceedings.

Landau had portrayed himself as an expert on presidential history and etiquette, and he was quoted in articles and interviewed on television programs.

A 2007 Associated Press article, written when Landau's book, "The President's Table: Two Hundred Years of Dining and Diplomacy" was published, includes his tale of how his fascination with the presidency began. Landau said at age 10 he parlayed a meeting with President Dwight Eisenhower during an appearance in New York into an invitation to the White House.

Landau faces up to 10 years in prison at sentencing on May 7. He may also have to pay restitution. No date is set for Savedoff's sentencing hearing.