Naples seniors face prison after guilty plea in $175K retail theft scheme

FLORIDA — A Naples couple has pleaded guilty to charges related to a retail theft scheme involving the resale of stolen goods through an eBay store, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida has announced.

Richard Murtaugh, 81, and Gail Murtaugh, 77, each face up to 20 years in federal prison after admitting to conspiracy to commit mail fraud. Their sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to court records, the Murtaughs operated the scheme beginning in September 2020, stealing high-value items from big box retailers and grocery stores across Collier and Lee Counties.

Security footage reportedly captured the couple in 2021 and 2022 stealing a range of products, including personal hygiene items, dental care supplies, nicotine products, over-the-counter medications, and drill bits, among other merchandise.

These items were then resold on their eBay store, named “dickandgailss” prosecutors said.

eBay records show that from December 2020 to May 2022, the Murtaughs earned $175,621.31 from the sale of stolen goods.

In April 2022, the United States Postal Inspection Service executed a search warrant at the Murtaughs’ residence on Isle of Capri in Naples. Investigators reportedly found thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandise matching items seen in store surveillance footage, as well as iPads containing photos linked to the eBay listings.

As part of their plea agreement, the Murtaughs have agreed to forfeit the $175,621.31 obtained from their sales.

The investigation was led by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling is prosecuting the case.