Inmate Charged After Officer Sprayed With Liquid at Lake County Jail
CROWN POINT — A Chicago man has been charged after authorities say he sprayed a correctional officer with liquid during an incident at the Lake County Jail earlier this month.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on September 14, 2025, at the jail located at 2293 N. Main Street in Crown Point. An affiant detective with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department reported reviewing surveillance footage provided during the investigation.
The video showed inmate Garrett Whittenburg, 42, inside cell 4H2 at approximately 7:58 a.m. Surveillance captured Whittenburg picking up a bottle from the floor, placing it through the trap door, and squeezing it as a correctional officer opened the door. A stream of liquid struck the officer, who quickly backed away, radioed for help, and checked his arm.
According to court documents, the officer later stated the liquid “smelled like urine and feces” and that it hit his chest, face, and glasses. He confirmed that he did not consent to Whittenburg’s actions.
Charges filed September 18, 2025:
• Battery by Bodily Waste; Victim is Public Safety Officer (F6)
• Battery Against a Public Safety Official (F6)
Remains lodged in the Lake County Jail.
