Calif. couple who bragged on ‘Dr. Phil’ show about shoplifting scheme indicted by grand jury

CA couple who admitted shoplifting on TV charged

SAN DIEGO — A Southern California couple who went on national television to brag about making $100,000 shoplifting toys and selling their loot on eBay has pleaded not guilty to federal conspiracy charges in San Diego.

A federal grand jury indictment unsealed Monday says authorities seized more than 500 boxes of stolen toys when they raided Laura and Matthew Eaton’s home in San Marcos with a search warrant in March.

The couple was arrested Friday and faces at least 27 months in prison if convicted of conspiracy to transport stolen property.

The Eatons appeared on the “Dr. Phil” show and said they supported their three toddlers by shoplifting for six years.

A federal public defender says both parents have gotten jobs since the March raid and the family is living with Laura Eaton’s parents.

Information from: North County Times, www.nctimes.com