Lake County, IN – Tension has escalated among the residents of Southern Lake County following a home invasion alert issued through the Neighbors app on Tuesday evening. In response, the Cedar Lake Police Department released a statement clarifying that the incident, reported near Lowell, occurred outside of their jurisdiction, with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office leading the ongoing investigation.
The unsettling event unfolded around 3:45 PM in the 15000 block of Ralston, where two individuals, posing as NIPSCO employees, allegedly forced entry into a residence, restrained the homeowner, and ransacked the property. The victim was later medically evaluated. Authorities have provided descriptions of the suspects: one is a stocky white male and the other a slender black male, both presumably in their late 20s or early 30s, last seen in a yellow moving van displaying a Penske logo.
In light of the invasion, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects. Citizens with any pertinent information are encouraged to contact the Report-A-Crime Hotline. Meanwhile, NIPSCO has alerted customers to be skeptical of impostors and to verify the identities of any utility representatives through their customer service number.
As warmer weather approaches, the Sheriff’s Office reminds residents that scam attempts typically increase. Homeowners are urged to remain alert to unsolicited visits from individuals claiming to be service workers. Validating identification and confirming the purpose of unexpected visits with the respective service providers is essential for safety. Never allow an unsolicited visitor into your home without thorough verification.
