East Chicago Man Charged With Robbery After Alleged AutoZone Theft Incident
Jerry Hawkins, 38, of East Chicago, is facing multiple charges, including robbery, following an alleged theft and use of force at an AutoZone store in Highland on December 23, 2025
According to the probable cause affidavit, a Highland Police detective was investigating a reported theft at the AutoZone located at 9136 Indianapolis Boulevard. Call notes indicated the suspect had left the scene in a white Ford Escape with blue tape in the back window. Using Flock and Vigilant camera systems, the vehicle was observed traveling northbound on Indianapolis Boulevard and was later located by East Chicago police in the 4500 block of Indianapolis Boulevard with a Duralast 180-piece hand tool set inside the vehicle.
The affidavit states an AutoZone employee observed a Black male wearing a tan jumpsuit enter the store, walk directly to aisle two, select two tool sets, and begin walking toward the front door. The employee exited the counter area and asked the man if he was paying cash or card. The suspect shook his head “no” and continued exiting the store with both tool sets.
The employee reported that once outside, she attempted to grab the tool set in the suspect’s right hand. At that time, the suspect allegedly used his right arm to push her, creating distance between them. One of the tool sets was dropped, while the suspect continued to the rear of the store, entered the vehicle, and fled northbound on Indianapolis Boulevard.
A second witness stated she observed the employee approach the suspect and ask if he was going to pay for the items. She reported seeing the suspect disregard the employee, exit the store, and push the employee away before fleeing the scene.
The total value of the tool sets was listed as $279.
The affidavit states the suspect was later positively identified by the employee as Jerry Hawkins. Hawkins was transported to the Highland Police Department, where he was advised of his rights and agreed to speak with investigators. Hawkins admitted he took the two tool sets and began walking out of the store. He initially denied any physical contact with the employee but later stated their arms did touch, while denying that he shoved her. The affidavit further states Hawkins said that he has been doing this a long time but denied shoving the employee.
After reviewing Hawkins’ criminal history, investigators noted he was previously convicted of theft on July 13, 2023, in Lake County.
Hawkins was transported to the Lake County Jail and held on a probable cause hold.
Charges filed December 24,2025:
• Robbery (Level 5 Felony)
• Theft with Prior Theft Conviction (Level 6 Felony)
• Theft (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Battery (Class B Misdemeanor)
