Jury Finds East Chicago Man Guilty on Multiple Child Molestation Charges
LAKE COUNTY — A Lake County jury has found Hakeem Pittman guilty on multiple felony charges stemming from a child molestation investigation conducted by the East Chicago Police Department.
According to court records, Pittman, was convicted following a jury trial in Lake County Superior Court of the following charges:
• Three counts of Child Molesting (Level 1 Felony)
• One count of Sexual Misconduct with a Minor (Level 5 Felony)
The charges originated from an investigation that began on April 26, 2024, after East Chicago police responded to a report involving a juvenile victim.
Investigators determined the allegations involved repeated inappropriate and unlawful conduct occurring over an extended period of time. Police documented electronic communications and other evidence during the investigation, which ultimately led to Pittman’s arrest at a residence in East Chicago.
The case was investigated by the East Chicago Police Department. Authorities also coordinated with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department during the investigation.
Lake County Prosecutor Bernard Carter praised the work of law enforcement and prosecutors involved in the case, citing their professionalism, persistence, and commitment to protecting children. Carter also commended Deputy Prosecutors Jessica Woodward and Keith Anderson for their dedication throughout the proceedings and their advocacy on behalf of the victim.
Court documents indicate Pittman declined to provide a statement to investigators following his arrest.
Pittman is currently awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for February 12, 2026.
