Ramon Noel Escobedo, 45, of Hammond, has been charged in Lake County after investigators alleged he stole merchandise from Meijer in the 10100 block of Indianapolis Boulevard in Highland on January 21, 2026.
According to a probable cause affidavit, officers responded to the store regarding a reported theft. Court documents allege surveillance video showed a man wearing a light blue hoodie, gray coat and gray jogging pants selecting an Armor All three-piece floor cover, Sony noise-canceling headphones, Lugz Monterey size 11 shoes, a Remington hair trimmer, Old Spice deodorant, a Belkin USB-A adapter and Meijer Omeprazole 20 mg before leaving the store without paying for the merchandise.
The footage allegedly showed the shopping cart wheels locking near the exit, with the suspect forcing the cart outside and loading the items into a red Toyota Prius before leaving southbound on Indianapolis Boulevard.
According to court documents, investigators later reviewed surveillance footage and alleged Escobedo was the individual shown in the video. Investigators alleged distinctive neck tattoos visible on the suspect matched Escobedo.
Court records also indicate Escobedo has multiple prior arrests for shoplifting and a 2012 Lake County theft conviction.
Lodged in the Lake County Jail on June 18, 2026.
Charges filed June 18, 2026:
- Theft, Level 6 felony
- Theft, misdemeanor
