Peter Angelo Reed, 53, of Gary, has been charged after Hobart police alleged he was responsible for two thefts at Macy’s in Southlake Mall that resulted in nearly $1,000 in stolen merchandise. 

According to court documents, the investigation began after store employees reported that a man entered Macy’s on Nov. 12, 2025, selected seven purses, and left the store without paying. Surveillance video allegedly showed the suspect being dropped off by a black vehicle before entering the store and leaving in the same vehicle while carrying the merchandise. 

Police said the merchandise allegedly taken included two International Concepts Trippii Chain Tote purses, two International Concepts Ajae Flap Crossbody purses, one International Concepts Tayviss Shoulder Bag, and two International Concepts Soft Ajae Leopard-Print Shoulder Bags, with a combined value of $696.50. 

During the investigation, detectives reviewed a similar theft reported at the same Macy’s on July 20, 2024, involving approximately $300 worth of Guess brand purses and wallets. After comparing surveillance images from both cases, investigators alleged the same individual committed both thefts. According to court records, the combined reported loss from the two incidents totaled $997.00. 

Court documents state investigators also determined Reed had multiple prior theft convictions in Lake and Porter counties, including theft convictions in Lake County on Nov. 4, 2021 (two convictions), May 10, 2022, Feb. 7, 2023, and Mar. 19, 2025, as well as a theft conviction in Porter County on Mar. 3, 2023.

Lodged in the Lake County Jail on July 12, 2026.

Charges filed May 13, 2026:

Theft with a prior theft or conversion conviction (Level 6 Felony) – 2 counts

Theft (Class A Misdemeanor) – 2 counts