Peninsula Pen Heist Lands Man Behind Bars

MILLBRAE, CA — A man attending an international showcase of high-end pens on the Peninsula was arrested over the weekend after police say he stole more than $5,000 in pens and other accessories.

The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office has identified the man accused in the case as Karl Emrich, 72, of Pleasanton. Investigators allege Emrich visited the San Francisco International Pen Show at the Westin Hotel in Millbrae, stealing multiple rare and high-value items as he walked through the venue.

"The show hosts hundreds of vendors with pens from all over the world," the sheriff's office wrote. "The show centers on the concept of showcasing, purchasing, selling, and trading vintage and 'collectible' pens. It caters to users, writers, artists, and journal keepers alike."

Officials said Emrich was eventually caught by staffers and vendors, and all of the stolen items were returned to their owners. Emrich was booked into the Maguire Correctional Facility in Redwood City on suspicion of grand theft.