By Jim Emerson
SAN RAFAEL — A couple has been arrested following an extensive investigation of identity
theft crimes. Marin County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Travis J. Penaluna, 29, and
Christina Taylor at a hotel in Vallejo. They were apprehended November 4 with help from U.S.
Marshals.
The sheriff’s office investigated multiple reports of mail theft, identity theft and fraud, which
have occurred since September. “Penaluna was identified as the suspect in several of these
crimes,” according to a prepared statement from the sheriff’s office.
Detectives and deputies identified two vehicles that Penaluna allegedly used to commit these
crimes throughout southern Marin County. One of the vehicles was purchased with loan
obtained using an identity theft victim’s name.
The hotel room where the couple was staying was searched. Investigators recovered an
unregistered loaded firearm and narcotics. Evidence of identity theft was also found, including
stolen mail, checks and ID cards. Paper and equipment for manufacturing checks and cards
were also recovered.
Penaluna and Taylor were transported to Marin County Jail. Penaluma was booked on 12
open charges related to firearms, drugs, grand theft, burglary, and other offenses. Taylor was
allegedly his accomplice. She was booked for charges that include receiving stolen property,
identity theft, and conspiracy to commit crime.
Penaluna, who has prior convictions, has been arrested 23 times since 2013. At the time of his
latest arrest he had an outstanding federal warrant for leaving a rehabilitation program.
Penaluna remains in custody. Taylor who also has prior convictions had an outstanding state
warrant for parolee at large.
