In a recent crackdown on organized retail theft, the Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office has secured convictions against two men for their involvement in a heist that took place in late May. According to a social media post by the District Attorney's Office, Michael Prunty of Modesto, 36, and Alberto Gavidia of Turlock, 44, engaged in a scheme resulting in the theft of over $1,500 worth of merchandise from the Ulta store in the Riverbank Crossroads Shopping Center.
On May 28, 2025, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office responded to a retail theft in which suspects Prunty and Gavidia filled bags with expensive cosmetics and perfumes at Ulta and left without paying. Both now face legal consequences, and Gavidia faces an additional charge for illegally possessing a firearm, with sentencing expected to result in four years in prison.
Organized Retail Theft Prosecutor Fawn Smolak led the case with determination, securing justice for the community. Prunty has already been sentenced to 32 months in prison, a clear reminder that organized retail theft laws carry serious consequences. The Organized Retail Theft Unit, launched by District Attorney Jeff Laugero, underscores Stanislaus County’s commitment to protecting local businesses and consumers from ongoing retail crime.
