I agree with cogar .
I'd also like to add another comment , since 'cleaned out' might imply criminal intent .
Perhaps 'Mr. Murphy' might want to contact the previous owner (or their estate) & 'fess-up' to his possible mis-deed .
He could even ask for a 'finders fee' ( or the cost of said appraisal ) .
Another route could be sell the darn thing & send an anonymous money order for the majority of funds from the sale of it .
Point of business here is that , if true (& in the U.S.) , the value of the violin alone (nevermind the circumstances of 'getting it') could constitute a major felony .
It seems , from what you've put in your post , that "Mr. Murphy" knows that there's a problem .
If that's not a red flag , what is ?
I'm not suggesting any of the above actions ..... just adding my 2 cents worth ...