Released Inmate Steals Car At Crown Point CVS With Child In It
Cary Benjamin Kellogg, 46, of Westville, is facing multiple felony charges in Lake County stemming from two separate incidents filed just days apart; one involving a stolen vehicle with a child inside and a police pursuit, and the other involving narcotics and paraphernalia.
On June 27, 2025, around 2:30 PM, Crown Point Police responded to the CVS on North Main Street after a white Dodge Journey was reported stolen. The vehicle’s owner told police she had left it running with her 11-year-old daughter in the back seat. The child jumped out after a man entered the driver’s seat and drove off.
The suspect, later identified as Kellogg, was located by Merrillville officers, who said he fled and led them on a pursuit that continued onto I-80/94. During the chase, the vehicle lost a tire, which struck and damaged a police vehicle. The pursuit ended near the 18.4-mile marker when Kellogg was stopped and taken into custody. Police allege he intentionally collided with a law enforcement vehicle during the stop.
The child was not physically injured but was visibly traumatized by the ordeal.
“He could’ve killed her in that chase or disappeared forever,” the girl’s father told Region News Source. The father arrived on scene shortly after the incident when he received the call from the mother. “She couldn’t stop crying and said she’s going to be scared for the rest of her life. I’m just so glad she had the presence of mind to jump out.”
According to court documents, Kellogg later stated, “For what it’s worth, I’m so sorry guys. I’m just trying to get the f**k home, dude.”
Sources say the man was likely headed toward Westville, where he has a last known address, though sources suggest he may be transient.
Separately, Kellogg was charged on June 25, 2025, in a different case after officers allegedly found him in possession of a narcotic drug, a syringe, and paraphernalia. He was released on his own recognizance with pretrial supervision following a court appearance on June 26.
Charges Filed (June 28, 2025 – Vehicle Theft Case):
- Attempted Kidnapping While Hijacking a Vehicle: Level 2 Felony
- Attempted Kidnapping of a Child Under 14: Level 5 Felony
- Attempted Kidnapping: Level 6 Felony
- Auto Theft: Level 6 Felony
- Resisting Law Enforcement Using a Vehicle: Level 6 Felony
- Reckless Driving Causing Property Damage: Class B Misdemeanor
Charges Filed (June 25, 2025 – Narcotics Case):
- Possession of a Narcotic Drug (under 5 grams): Level 6 Felony
- Unlawful Possession of a Syringe: Level 6 Felony
- Possession of Paraphernalia: Class C Misdemeanor
Kellogg is currently lodged in the Lake County Jail.
