by Griffith, Indiana — A northwest Indiana man is facing multiple theft-related charges after police say he stole thousands of dollars’ worth of ice cream from delivery trucks over several weeks — and then sold it.
According to the Griffith Police Department, Christopher Stewart was taken into custody Friday following an investigation into repeated thefts involving frozen goods taken directly from delivery vehicles.
Surveillance and vehicle records led to arrest
Police said officers began investigating after reports surfaced that ice cream was disappearing from delivery trucks operating in the area. Surveillance footage, along with vehicle registration records, eventually led detectives to Stewart, authorities said.
Investigators determined that 258 cases of ice cream, valued at approximately $6,200, had been stolen during multiple incidents spanning several weeks.
After being questioned, Stewart admitted to taking the ice cream and selling it, police said.
Charges filed in connection with repeated thefts
Stewart now faces several charges, including:
- Theft greater than $750
- Theft with a prior conviction
- Failure of duty
Police did not release details about where or to whom the ice cream was allegedly sold, but said the investigation confirmed a pattern of repeated thefts rather than a one-time incident.
Police announce arrest with humor
The Griffith Police Department announced the arrest in a lighthearted post on social media, adding humor to an otherwise straightforward theft case.
“Who steals 258 cases of ice cream valued at $6,200 in December? Apparently, Christopher Stewart does,” the department wrote. “Through the hard work of our Patrol Division, this bold (and chilly) decision earned him a spot on the Naughty List, along with felony theft charges.”
While the post drew attention online, police emphasized that the charges themselves are serious and carry potential felony consequences.
Theft impacts local businesses and drivers
Authorities noted that thefts from delivery trucks can have significant ripple effects, impacting drivers, distributors, and local businesses that rely on timely deliveries — especially during the busy holiday season.
Police say such crimes can also create safety risks when individuals tamper with commercial vehicles or cargo in active delivery zones.
Investigation remains ongoing
It was not immediately clear whether Stewart is suspected in any additional thefts beyond those already identified. Police said the case remains under review, and more charges could be filed if further evidence emerges.
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Officials also encouraged delivery drivers and businesses to report suspicious activity promptly, noting that surveillance footage and license plate data played a key role in resolving this case.
Court proceedings ahead
Stewart is expected to make an initial court appearance in Lake County, where a judge will determine next steps in the case, including bond conditions and future hearing dates.
Police did not disclose whether Stewart remains in custody or has since posted bond.
For now, officers say the arrest brings an end to what they described as an unusually cold crime spree — one that left hundreds of cartons of ice cream melting away from their intended destinations.
Do you think thefts like this should carry stiffer penalties when businesses are repeatedly targeted? Share your thoughts in the comments.
