A months-long investigation into identity theft, fraud, and mail theft across southern Marin County resulted in the arrest of a couple on Monday at a Vallejo hotel, according to the Marin County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation, which began in September, revealed that Travis Penaluna was the primary suspect in several identity theft cases. Authorities said Penaluna used the stolen identity of a victim to secure a loan and purchase a vehicle, which was later involved in further criminal activities. His girlfriend, Christina Taylor, was also implicated in assisting him with these crimes.
Detectives, working with U.S. Marshals, tracked the couple to a hotel in Vallejo. A search of their room uncovered numerous items related to their criminal activities, including stolen mail, forged checks, personal identity documents, and equipment used for printing fake cards. They also found a loaded, unregistered firearm and narcotics.
Penaluna, who had a history of similar federal crimes and was wanted for escaping from a rehabilitation program, was arrested and booked into Marin County Jail. He faces several charges, including:
- Possession of stolen property
- Burglary
- Possession of a controlled substance while armed
- Felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition
- Making fictitious checks
- Grand theft auto
- Obtaining credit with another’s identity
- Carrying a loaded firearm
- Possession of burglary tools
- Conspiracy to commit a crime
Taylor, who was out on parole and had a warrant for her arrest, was also arrested and booked into jail. She faces charges for:
- Possession of stolen property
- Burglary
- Obtaining credit with another’s identity
- Possession of narcotics paraphernalia
- Possession of a switchblade
- Conspiracy to commit a crime
This case highlights the growing issue of identity theft and the involvement of criminal networks in fraudulent schemes. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the couple’s activities and encourage anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud to come forward.
