Joseph Jamesallen Gilbert, 27, of Portage, is accused of driving away in a Jeep Wrangler from a Hobart dealership where he had been offered work washing vehicles.

According to the probable cause affidavit, a Hobart police officer was dispatched at approximately 5:18 p.m. Thursday, July 9, to Eagle Motorsports in the 3700 block of West 37th Avenue after receiving a report that a man assisting with washing vehicles had allegedly driven away in a red 2012 Jeep Wrangler without permission. The Jeep reportedly did not have a license plate attached.

While responding, the officer located a red Jeep Wrangler parked behind a restaurant near the intersection of West 37th Avenue and Liverpool Road. A woman was initially seen standing next to the vehicle, but she was gone by the time the officer approached. Officers searched the immediate area but were unable to locate her.

Police then encountered Gilbert nearby. Court records state he voluntarily approached the officer and, when asked who owned the Jeep, allegedly replied, “that is my jeep.” When asked where he got it, Gilbert allegedly stated, “from down the street where I work, they let me have it.” After being advised the Jeep had been reported stolen, Gilbert allegedly denied stealing it.

During the investigation, officers interviewed a woman who told police she had seen Gilbert arrive in the Jeep. She reportedly asked him why he had the vehicle, and according to court documents, Gilbert allegedly responded, “I am out here doing big things.” She was later released after officers determined she was not involved.

Investigators also spoke with the manager of Eagle Motorsports, who said Gilbert had previously stopped by the business looking for work. The manager reportedly offered him potential employment washing vehicles, and Gilbert arrived around noon on July 9 and began working.

According to court documents, the manager later noticed the Jeep was missing and reviewed surveillance video, which allegedly showed Gilbert standing behind the vehicle at approximately 2:35 p.m. before driving away eastbound on West 37th Avenue at approximately 2:36 p.m. The manager told police Gilbert was never given permission to take the Jeep.

After taking Gilbert into custody, officers allegedly recovered the keys to the Jeep from his front right pants pocket.

Lodged in the Lake County Jail.

Charge Filed July 10, 2026:

Auto Theft — Level 6 Felony