A California woman behind an $8 million organized retail theft operation has been sentenced to over five years in prison. Michelle Mack, 54, orchestrated a widespread shoplifting ring targeting Ulta and Sephora stores across 21 counties in California, according to the state’s Department of Justice (DOJ).
Authorities say Mack and her husband, Kenneth Mack, recruited a group of young women to steal high-demand beauty products, which she later resold at a discount through her Amazon storefront. A raid on her luxurious Bonsall, California home uncovered a massive stockpile of stolen cosmetics, neatly stored and prepared for online orders.
Retail Theft on the Rise
Despite overall crime rates returning to pre-2019 levels, shoplifting has surged. Reports from the Council on Criminal Justice show that retail theft increased 24% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year.
Dan Petrousek, senior vice president of loss prevention at Ulta Beauty, emphasized the dangers of organized retail crime.
“Not only does it put our store employees and customers at risk, but it also leads to potentially unsafe or counterfeit products being resold under misleading conditions,” he stated.
Law Enforcement Cracks Down
Authorities launched an investigation into Mack’s operation in early 2024, involving agencies like the California DOJ, California Highway Patrol (CHP), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
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CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee underscored the state’s zero-tolerance policy for organized retail crime:
“California will not tolerate these criminal networks. This case sends a strong message that those engaging in such crimes will be held fully accountable.”
Michelle Mack faced multiple charges, including:
- Organized retail theft
- Conspiracy
- Receipt of stolen property
- Grand theft
California Attorney General Rob Bonta praised the outcome, calling it a major victory for businesses, retailers, and consumers.
Financial Penalties and Asset Forfeiture
In addition to prison time, Mack has been ordered to pay $3 million in restitution. Her home and all assets have been seized and liquidated to help compensate victims.
“Strong collaboration between retailers, law enforcement, and lawmakers is crucial in combating organized retail crime,” Petrousek added.
The case highlights the growing impact of organized theft rings, particularly in high-value industries like beauty and cosmetics. While retailers continue to strengthen security measures, officials remain committed to holding offenders accountable for their crimes.
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