DeMotte man accused of breaking into vehicle

VALPARAISO | Police said a man claiming he locked his keys in his car at a Valparaiso apartment complex borrowed a hammer from an apartment resident and smashed a vehicle window.

But police said he broke into a car that didn't belong to him, then began looking into additional vehicles in the parking lot.

The man, Christopher Stavitzke, 29, of DeMotte, was arrested on a criminal mischief charge.

The incident and arrest occurred about 12:30 a.m. Sunday at 3005 Gleneagles Court. The person whose car was damaged is Annie Redmond, of Gleneagles Court.

CHESTERTON

THURSDAY

Fraud. Chesterton resident Larry Richardson reported fraudulent use of his ExxonMobil Speedpass. The loss is $747.

FRIDAY

Burglary. Aeropostale Drive resident Aaron Hammer reported someone damaged a $500 tree in his yard, entered his father-in-law's vehicle in the driveway and entered his garage, taking an engagement/wedding ring set worth $3,000 and a $15 necklace.

Attempted burglary. Westwood Lane resident Teresa Rivera reported $500 damage to an entrance to her garage.

Theft. West Morgan Avenue resident Kimberly Martinez reported someone stole tools and a snow blower from her shed. In addition, a tub of ceramic Christmas decorations was knocked over, breaking many of them. In addition, her neighbor's Halloween decorations were damaged.

Vandalism. Chesterton resident Nancy Lafata reported someone caused $350 damage to the rear window of her car at her daughter's home on south 15th Street in Chesterton.

Theft. Annabelle Court resident Susan Friedrich reported she left a $99 item in front of her door inside the apartment complex for FedEx to pick up, but it was stolen.

SUNDAY

Theft. Speedway, 502 Gateway Boulevard, reported the theft of 100 gallons of diesel fuel worth $399.

Vandalism. South 15th Street resident Heather Bender reported $200 damage to a van window.

PORTAGE

FRIDAY

Theft. DRD LLC, 6575 Daniel Burnham Drive, reported a $200 catalytic converter stolen from a box truck.

SATURDAY

Burglary. Sundance Trail resident Pat McMillon reported the theft of video game items and a stereo. The loss is $700.

VALPARAISO

SUNDAY

Arrest. Jeffery Beck, 32, of 1809 Chicago St., Valparaiso, was arrested on theft and fleeing charges after he was accused of stealing a 12-pack of beer from Speedway, 2005 U.S. 30, then fleeing on foot when police approached him.