Thomas Shurtz, Carson Pass RV owner, arrested in California on 53 grand theft counts; accused of defrauding dozens through fraudulent RV consignment sales.
Thomas Shurtz, 44, the owner of Carson Pass RV in Lockeford, California, was arrested on August 19, 2026, and charged with 53 counts of grand theft.
Authorities allege he defrauded dozens of customers by selling recreational vehicles placed on consignment without notifying their rightful owners. He is currently being held on $2.1 million bail.
The arrest followed months of investigation by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives say Shurtz sold RVs entrusted to his dealership but failed to complete the required Department of Motor Vehicles paperwork, leaving owners unaware their vehicles had been sold.
Complaints began surfacing after Carson Pass RV abruptly shut down in March 2026, prompting law enforcement to launch a full inquiry.
Allegations
Authorities believe Shurtz orchestrated a large‑scale fraud scheme involving dozens of victims. Investigators estimate that as many as 80 individuals may have been affected, with losses totaling millions of dollars.
Victims include retirees and families who invested savings into RVs, many of which represented years of hard work and cherished memories.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that Shurtz’s actions went beyond financial harm, stripping families of vehicles tied to personal milestones and travel experiences.
The sheriff’s office has requested assistance from federal agents due to the scale of the fraud. Prosecutors are expected to pursue additional charges as more victims come forward.
The case has shaken trust in local dealerships and raised questions about oversight in consignment sales. Many victims described their RVs as more than vehicles, calling them symbols of retirement dreams and family adventures.
A statement from the sheriff’s office captured the emotional toll:
For many victims, these RVs were more than just vehicles. They represented years of hard work, retirement savings, and precious memories with their children and loved ones.
Community leaders are now calling for stricter regulations to ensure transparency in consignment transactions and DMV compliance.
The arrest of Thomas Shurtz underscores the importance of accountability in the RV industry. With dozens of victims and millions of dollars at stake, the case highlights the risks of fraudulent practices in consignment sales.
The investigation remains ongoing, and more charges could follow as additional victims are identified.