California Couple Ordered to Pay $3M for Ulta and Sephora Theft Ring
Luxury Cosmetics Theft Ring: Macks Sentenced, $300K in Stolen Goods Found
A California couple has been ordered to pay millions in restitution after orchestrating a national retail theft ring targeting luxury cosmetic stores, according to the published article of NECN. Kenneth and Michelle Mack of Bonsall pleaded guilty to multiple counts of grand theft and conspiracy admitting to running a scheme involving at least 12 women shoplifting makeup and other goods from various retailers including 230 Ulta stores and a LensCrafters in Clairemont. On Thursday a San Diego County judge sentenced Kenneth Mack to five years and four months in prison with a plea deal allowing for release after one year followed by probation and community service. Michelle Mack’s sentencing will be deferred to allow the couple to care for their minor children. The judge ordered the Macks and some of their co-conspirators to pay $3 million in restitution to Ulta and $13,000 to Sephora.
Bonsall Couple’s $8M Theft Ring: $3M Restitution Ordered for Ulta and Sephora
The Macks’ criminal activities were exposed following a raid on their Bonsall mansion in December 2023 where over $300,000 worth of stolen makeup and products were discovered. Michelle Mack was accused of directing women to shoplift and coordinating the resale of stolen goods through an “Online Makeup Store” on Amazon. The couple’s luxurious property complete with a vineyard and chapel was also used as a wedding venue and AirBnb. California Attorney General Rob Bonta initially estimated the scheme’s losses at $8 million though the final amount is expected to be higher. The plea agreement reduced the original 140 counts against the Macks and their accomplices which included grand theft, receiving stolen property, conspiracy and organized retail crime. At least nine individuals were arrested in connection with the extensive theft ring highlighting the significant impact of the Macks’ criminal enterprise on retailers across the country.