Two Arrested in San Mateo for Identity Theft and Drug Possession Following Traffic Stop

San Mateo Police Arrest Couple in Identity Theft and Drug Bust

SAN MATEO, CA — A routine traffic stop turned into a significant criminal bust Monday night when San Mateo police arrested a man and woman after discovering binders filled with personal identifying information and suitcases packed with suspected drugs.

At approximately 8:47 p.m., an officer pulled over a vehicle near Chess Drive and Bridgepointe Parkway. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Chad Correia from La Cañada, was found to have an active misdemeanor arrest warrant. A search of his car revealed not only drug paraphernalia but also several counterfeit California driver’s licenses featuring Correia’s photo.

The investigation took a more alarming turn when officers uncovered binders and notebooks containing sensitive personal information from numerous potential victims, including Social Security numbers, addresses, and banking details.

Before the traffic stop, the officer observed a woman, later identified as 45-year-old Megan McMurray of Burbank, conversing with Correia inside the vehicle. Following the stop, officers located McMurray hiding behind a car near a nearby hotel. Initially, she provided a false name, but police quickly discovered she had two active felony warrants for her arrest.

A search of McMurray’s suitcases revealed a substantial quantity of drugs packaged for sale, including methamphetamine, heroin, and Xanax. The suitcases also contained additional fake driver’s licenses and extensive personal identifying information belonging to various victims.

Both Correia and McMurray were arrested on multiple felony charges, including identity theft, forgery, and possession of controlled substances for sale. Correia faces additional charges related to criminal conspiracy and multiple drug possession offenses, while McMurray’s charges include her outstanding warrants.

The couple was booked into the San Mateo County Jail, where they await further legal proceedings. Authorities are urging anyone who may have been a victim of identity theft to report any suspicious activity.

This incident highlights the ongoing battle against identity theft and drug-related crimes in the region, as police continue to work diligently to protect the community.