San Luis Obispo Couple Flees After Theft Arrest

Michael and Kensington Forster skipped court after being charged with burglary, theft, and conspiracy in Napa County.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:42am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered glass wine bottle against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the Forsters' alleged theft and disregard for the law.A shattered wine bottle symbolizes the Forsters' alleged theft and disregard for the law.San Luis Obispo Today

A San Luis Obispo couple, Michael Forster, 61, and Kensington Forster, 50, were arrested in late March for stealing a $1,200 blanket and some wine from a Napa County home. The Forsters posted bail but failed to show up for their court hearing on April 7, prompting a felony warrant for their arrest.

Why it matters

The Forsters' alleged crimes are part of a broader pattern of financial misconduct - Michael Forster was previously investigated by the SEC for suspected 'pump-and-dump' stock manipulation schemes. Their disappearance raises concerns about accountability for white-collar crimes.

The details

On March 26, staff at Hillstone Homes and Honor Market in Napa County discovered a theft had occurred on Feb. 21, with surveillance footage showing a male and female taking a $1,200 blanket and some wine. Deputies identified the suspects as the Forsters through their vehicle. The couple was pulled over on March 28 and the stolen items were recovered, but they were released on bail and failed to appear in court on April 7.

  • On March 26, the theft was discovered at Hillstone Homes and Honor Market.
  • On March 28, the Forsters were pulled over and arrested.
  • On April 7, the Forsters failed to appear in court.

The players

Michael Forster

A 61-year-old San Luis Obispo resident who was previously investigated by the SEC for suspected stock manipulation schemes.

Kensington Forster

A 50-year-old San Luis Obispo resident and the wife of Michael Forster.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold all criminals accountable, regardless of their wealth or status.”

— Napa County Sheriff

What’s next

Law enforcement is actively searching for the Forsters, and a felony warrant has been issued for their arrest.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for consistent enforcement of the law, especially when it comes to white-collar crimes that can have far-reaching financial and societal impacts.