Identity Theft Duo Arrested in Vallejo for multiple Marin Crimes

Since September of this year, the Marin County Sheriff's Office has taken several reports of identity theft, fraud, and mail theft throughout Southern Marin. Through an extensive investigation, Travis Penaluna was identified as the suspect in several of these crimes. Deputies and Detectives were able to identify two vehicles Penaluna was utilizing during these crimes. One of the vehicles was purchased in the name of a Marin Co. Identity theft victim through a loan that was also taken out in the victim's name. Penaluna had previously been convicted federally for similar crimes and had a Federal Warrant for his arrest after absconding from a rehabilitation program. Detectives also identified Penaluna's girlfriend who was assisting him with these crimes as Christina Taylor. Taylor was on CA State Parole and had a Parolee at Large warrant.

On 11/4/2024 Detectives were able to locate Penaluna and Taylor at a hotel in Vallejo. With the assistance of the US Marshals arrested Penaluna and Taylor. A search of their hotel room was conducted. Numerous items related to identity theft, fraud, and forgery were located including stolen mail, checks, identity items, blank check stock, and card printers. Additionally, a loaded unregistered firearm and narcotics were located in the hotel room.

Penaluna was booked into the Marin County jail for Possession of Stolen Property, Burglary, Possession of a Controlled Substance While Armed, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Make Fictitious Checks, Grand Theft Auto, Obtain Credit with Another's ID, Carry Loaded Firearm, Possession of Burglary Tools, and Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.

Taylor was booked into the Marin County Jail for Possession of Stolen Property, Burglary, Obtain Credit with Another's ID, Possession of Narcotics Paraphernalia, Possession of a Switchblade, and Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.

If you live in Marin and believe you were a victim of mail theft or identity theft, please contact your Local Law Enforcement Agency to file a report and reference case number SO24-3063. If you live in the Jurisdiction of the Marin County Sheriff's Office please call 415-479-2311