CAMARILLO, CA – Daniel Stern, the 68-year-old actor globally recognized as bumbling burglar Marv in the Home Alone franchise, was ticketed by Ventura County police last month in a prostitution-related case. According to reports from TMZ on Friday, January 9, 2026, Stern was issued a citation on December 10, 2025, but was not arrested or booked into custody.
1. Details of the Alleged Incident
The citation reportedly stems from an undercover operation at a hotel in Camarillo, California.
- The Allegation: Police documents indicate Stern was ticketed for an alleged attempt to solicit an escort.
- The Location: The incident occurred roughly an hour northwest of Los Angeles, near Stern’s long-term residence in the Somis area.
- Current Status: Because Stern was issued a citation (ticket) rather than being physically arrested, no mugshot was taken. As of Saturday, January 10, 2026, authorities have not confirmed whether formal charges will be filed or if a court date has been set.
2. Irony of the Timing
Fans and media outlets have noted the unfortunate timing of the incident. The citation was issued in the middle of the Christmas season, a time when Stern’s iconic holiday films are in peak rotation on streaming services like Disney+.
Just days before the incident, Stern had given an interview to People magazine (published December 2, 2025), where he described himself as a “homebody” who rarely leaves his farm. He also skipped the 35th-anniversary events for Home Alone, citing his preference for a quiet life as a sculptor and farmer.
3. Recent Health Scare
The citation marks the second time Stern has made local headlines in Ventura County in recent months.
- October 2025: Stern was rushed to a hospital following a “medical emergency” at his residence in Somis.
- Recovery: While the nature of the emergency was never disclosed, Stern reportedly made a full recovery and returned to his artistic work shortly after.
4. Continuing Home Alone Legacy
Despite the recent legal trouble, Stern remains tied to his most famous role. In late December 2025, it was revealed that the owners of the original Home Alone house in Winnetka, Illinois, commissioned Stern to create a bronze sculpture of himself and the famous tarantula for the property.
Stern’s Response: At the time of this report, Daniel Stern has not issued a public statement regarding the solicitation citation.