Portage Woman Charged After Children Found Alone During Traffic Stop
PORTAGE — Kennedy Paige Carter, 27, of Portage, is facing a felony neglect charge after police say she left two young children alone at home before being stopped for a traffic violation on November 30.
The affidavit states officers observed a 2014 Kia Optima at U.S. 20 and County Line Road that was allegedly speeding, weaving, and disregarding a stop light. A license check showed Carter’s license was suspended prior, and she reportedly admitted knowing it was suspended.
During the stop, Carter told police she had left her 5-year-old and 1-year-old children at home while she was “only stopping at a gas station,” though the officer wrote her direction of travel did not match this statement.It was unclear how long the children had been left alone or how long they might have remained without intervention.
The affidavit states Carter did not tell officers where she was going or why the children were left alone. Police noted that no one was nearby who could care for the children, and officers ultimately contacted friends of Carter to ensure the children were properly supervised.
Charges filed December 1,2025:
• Neglect of a Dependent — Level 6 Felony
• Driving While Suspended (Prior) — Class A Misdemeanor
Lodged in the Porter County Jail.
