Shoplifters Say Dr. Phil Duped Them
April 3rd, 2009Matthew and Laura Eaton, aka the “Dr. Phil shoplifters,” have lawyered up and are going after Dr. Phil!

[Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos ]
The United Defense Group, representing the Eaton family, just confirmed to Popsquire.com that they are exploring legal remedies against Dr. Phil. They say an unnamed Dr. Phil producer made several promises to persuade the couple to confess their $1 million shoplifting enterprise on air, but the show hasn’t fulfilled any of those promises.
The producer allegedly promised psychological counseling, “help for their kids” and, if needed, a legal defense. Among other things, the producer allegedly said: “We will bail you out of jail,” and “We will pay for your legal counseling.” The Eatons also claim that the producer assured them that Dr. Phil was aware of these promises.
Since they taped the show last fall, however, the Eatons say they have not received any help from Dr. Phil or his producers. Nancy Yamini, one of the Eatons’ attorneys, says her firm contacted Dr. Phil’s attorneys to ask for help and got this response: “I doubt you’re going to get any help.” As a result, the Eatons’ attorneys are now exploring civil remedies against Dr. Phil and his show.
Yamini also confirmed that although federal authorities raided the Eatons’ home, charges still have not been filed.
PS: Popsquire reached out to the Dr. Phil show and is awaiting a response.

