Grinch gets 8 years for theft

Bee Staff Reports

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Matthew John David Avila, 23, of Salida was sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison after being convicted of crimes that included stealing presents from under his friend's Christmas tree. Avila also was convicted of possession of a stolen vehicle and domestic violence.

On Dec. 23, 2008, Avila visited a friend's home in Turlock, waited for his friend to fall asleep and then stole two Christmas gifts — an antique samurai sword and a Sirius XM satellite radio — from under the tree.

Among the other sentences announced this week by the Stanislaus County district attorney's office:

• Dennis Fabela, 35, of Modesto was sentenced to five years and four months in prison after being convicted of possession of methamphetamine and marijuana for sale.

On Nov. 29, 2005, officers conducted a search of Fabela's residence and located more than an ounce of methamphetamine, an ounce of marijuana, a digital scale, small plastic baggies and $1,700 in cash.

• Danny Stevens Jr., 45, of Turlock was sentenced to 12 years and eight months in prison after being convicted of auto theft, possession of stolen property, possession of a dirk or dagger and resisting arrest.

On Oct. 9, 2008, Stevens received a car he knew to be stolen, authorities said. Stevens, claiming to be the real owner, then sold the car to another person.

The buyer contacted the actual owner of the vehicle and found out the car was stolen. Police located Stevens later that day.

Stevens was in possession of another vehicle that had been stolen the night before. He fled from the police on foot and was apprehended after a short chase.

A search of Stevens revealed that he was carrying a fixed-blade knife.