James Matthew Hoover, 37, of Gary, has been charged in Porter County after police allege he stole a pickup truck and thousands of dollars in tools and equipment from a business in the 5600 block of Old Porter Road in Portage. 

According to court documents, officers began investigating after the owner of a white 2019 Chevrolet Silverado reported seeing Hoover allegedly jump a fence into an enclosed area before entering the unlocked truck around 12:05 p.m. on June 27. The keys had reportedly been left inside the vehicle, and Hoover allegedly drove away from the property.

Court records state the Silverado contained an aluminum fuel tank, wrenches, sockets and a new tire. The property inside the truck was valued at approximately $3,800.

According to court documents, officers later located the Silverado being driven on Old Porter Road after recognizing it from security footage. A Bureau of Motor Vehicles records check allegedly showed Hoover’s driver’s license was suspended and that he had a prior conviction for driving while suspended within the previous 10 years.

Investigators also allege Hoover entered a red 2005 Chevrolet 3500 van parked at the business without permission. Court records state security footage showed Hoover entering the van, and the owner later discovered the steering column cover had been removed and the wiring stripped and exposed.

Charges filed June 29, 2026:

Auto Theft (Level 6 Felony)

Theft – Property Valued Between $750 and $50,000 (Level 6 Felony)

Driving While Suspended – Knowing Violation with Prior Conviction Within 10 Years (Class A Misdemeanor)

Criminal Mischief – Damage Between $750 and $50,000 (Class A Misdemeanor)

Unauthorized Entry of a Motor Vehicle (Class A Misdemeanor)