A Spokane Valley man with an extensive criminal history has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison following convictions for organized retail theft. The case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement and prosecutors to address repeat retail theft offenses that affect local businesses and communities.
According to court records and a January 16, 2026 press release, Shannon B. Morley, age 61, was sentenced to 57 months in prison after being found guilty of two counts of second-degree organized retail theft. The convictions stem from incidents that occurred in March and May of 2023 at a truck stop on Broadway Avenue in Spokane Valley.
Investigators reported that surveillance video showed Morley using a key to access an electronic cabinet inside the store and removing a Garmin GPS device valued at nearly $1,000. The incidents were investigated by the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and later referred for prosecution.
During sentencing, the State requested a sentence above the standard range, citing Morley’s long criminal record, which includes dozens of prior felony convictions along with additional misdemeanor offenses. Defense counsel asked the court to consider a Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative, arguing that substance use treatment would be more appropriate than a longer prison term.
Judge Rachelle Anderson denied that request, pointing to Morley’s history and the cumulative impact of repeated offenses on the community. She imposed two 57-month sentences to be served concurrently.
The case was prosecuted by the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with support from law enforcement and victim witness advocates. For WR members, the case illustrates how organized retail theft statutes are being applied in Washington courts and the role of coordinated enforcement in addressing repeat theft activity.
