Hobart Police Arrest Suspect After Narcotics Investigation and Dangerous Vehicle Pursuit
HOBART — Hobart Police Department officers arrested a 37-year-old Illinois man Tuesday following a narcotics investigation that escalated into a dangerous vehicle pursuit and officer-involved injuries in Lake County.
According to police, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of suspected fentanyl near Southlake Mall on January 21, 2026. After the transaction, officers attempted to take the suspect, identified as Lester Louis Larkin, also known by the nickname “Turbo,” of Markham and Decatur, Illinois into custody. Police say Larkin fled the scene in his vehicle, prompting officers to initiate a traffic stop.
Authorities report that Larkin led officers on a pursuit during which he allegedly intentionally rammed multiple fully marked Hobart Police vehicles, causing significant damage and injuring one officer. During the chase, police say the suspect also drove directly toward another officer who was deploying tire deflation devices, forcing that officer to take evasive action to avoid being struck. Although the suspect partially struck the devices, police say he continued fleeing before being boxed in and taken into custody with the assistance of a Hobart K9 after allegedly resisting arrest.
Investigators recovered suspected fentanyl, MDMA, psilocybin, and U.S. currency believed to be connected to the controlled purchase.
Larkin faces a total of 23 charges, 10 felony counts and 13 misdemeanor counts. The charges include two counts of Level 1 felony attempted murder, a Level 3 felony dealing in narcotics, and additional counts related to battery, narcotics possession, resisting law enforcement, leaving the scene of an accident, and striking a law enforcement animal.
Police officials commended the narcotics unit and assisting officers for their professionalism during what they described as a highly dangerous incident.
The case remains pending in court. As with all criminal matters, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
