Kenyata Meshone Franklin, 34, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Javonta Jermaine Headspeth, 33, of Benton Harbor, Michigan, are facing charges in Porter County following a traffic stop on Interstate 94 in Chesterton that led to allegations involving a stolen Indiana license plate, identity deception, cocaine possession, and marijuana possession.

According to court documents, Chesterton Police conducted a traffic stop on a silver Jeep Cherokee near mile marker 27 on Interstate 94 on May 26, 2026, after officers identified an Indiana license plate that had been reported stolen. Investigators said Headspeth was driving the vehicle and Franklin was seated in the passenger seat.

Police allege the Jeep had been purchased from an Indiana man several months earlier, but the seller’s Indiana license plate remained attached to the vehicle. Court records state the owner later contacted the pair and requested the plate be returned. Investigators allege both Headspeth and Franklin were aware the plate did not belong to them and continued operating the vehicle for at least a week after being asked to return it. Authorities further allege toll charges continued to accrue to the registered owner during that time.

During the stop, Franklin reportedly complained of breathing difficulties and was transported to a local hospital. Police said Franklin initially identified herself as “Michelle C. Taylor.” Investigators later learned from the driver that the passenger was actually Franklin. A records check allegedly revealed Franklin had multiple warrants from Berrien County, Michigan.

According to court documents, officers later interviewed Franklin at the hospital, where she allegedly admitted she had provided her sister’s identifying information to police, EMS personnel, and hospital staff. Investigators said Franklin acknowledged she intentionally used the false identity to avoid being arrested on the warrants.

Police also reported locating a bag containing pill bottles and other items that Franklin allegedly identified as belonging to her. Officers said they recovered 41 whole and three half black-colored pills that field-tested positive for cocaine. Investigators additionally reported finding marijuana and THC-infused edible candies inside the vehicle.

Court records indicate both Franklin and Headspeth have prior theft-related convictions.

Lodged in the Porter County Jail.

Charges filed May 27, 2026:

Charges Against Kenyata Meshone Franklin:

Possession of Cocaine (Level 4 Felony)
Identity Deception (Level 6 Felony)
Theft (Level 6 Felony)
Theft (Class A Misdemeanor)
Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor)

Charges Against Javonta Jermaine Headspeth:

Theft (Level 6 Felony)
Theft (Class A Misdemeanor)