A 57-year-old Hobart man, Derek Shawn Ebeltoft, is facing felony charges after an incident that started as a traffic stop and ended with his arrest.
According to a probable cause affidavit, on January 8, 2026, at approximately 11:17 a.m., a Lake County Sheriff’s officer observed a red Ford Escape commit a traffic violation near 25th Avenue and Harrison Street in Gary.
The affidavit states the officer attempted a traffic stop after seeing the vehicle turn without signaling. After activating emergency lights, the vehicle continued westbound on 26th Avenue. The officer then activated sirens and observed the driver check the rearview mirror but continue driving for several blocks before stopping near 26th Avenue and Fillmore Street.
After the vehicle stopped, the driver was identified as Ebeltoft and taken into custody. According to the affidavit, Ebeltoft claimed he was unaware that law enforcement was trying to stop him.
During the investigation, officers learned Ebeltoft had an active felony warrant out of Porter County, the affidavit states. A female passenger told officers that Ebeltoft acknowledged he was being pulled over but chose not to stop until reaching his home. She also stated she asked him to stop or allow her to exit the vehicle, but he refused.
While being transported to the Lake County Jail, the affidavit says Ebeltoft became hostile and directed multiple hateful and vulgar remarks toward the officer. At one point, he allegedly threatened the officer, stating he was going to “kick you in the face.”
Ebeltoft was booked into the Lake County Jail. According to the affidavit, the female passenger took possession of the vehicle.
Charges filed January 9, 2026
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Intimidation: Threat to Commit a Forcible Felony – Level 6 Felony
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Resisting Law Enforcement Using a Vehicle – Level 6 Felony
Pending Case – Porter County
Court records show Ebeltoft also has a pending case out of Porter County involving the following charges:
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Possession of Methamphetamine (5–10 grams) – Level 5 Felony