Eric L. Williams, 60, faces felony and misdemeanor charges after court documents allege he forced sexual contact with a coworker inside the Jewel-Osco on the 1200 block of Main Street in Crown Point during the early morning hours of February 4.
According to the probable cause affidavit, officers were dispatched to the store at around 6:33 a.m. following a report of an unwanted kiss and grabbing that occurred around 2:10 a.m. while both individuals were working. The call was later updated to note that Williams had left work and also worked at Luke Gas Station on the 9200 block of Taft Street in Merrillville.
The victim told police she was working in aisle 1 when Williams approached her and began making unwanted advances. She told him to stop, but he came behind her, pressed his body against hers, and said, “Feel how hard I am.” She reported that he grabbed her and said, “I can do for you what your husband can’t.”
The victim attempted to remove herself from the situation but said she was afraid. She reported that Williams put his hands on her buttocks, reached between her legs, and slid his hand upward. He then kissed her on the lips and said, “You look mad,” before telling her to give him a hug.
She was eventually able to get away to another aisle where another person was present, then went to the break room before reporting the incident.
Police reviewed surveillance footage, which showed Williams entering aisle 1 around 2:06 a.m., with the victim leaving the area around 2:18 a.m. with another person. After reviewing the footage, officers went to Luke Gas Station in Merrillville and located Williams working the register.
After being read his Miranda rights, Williams told officers the contact was consensual, describing it as two hugs and a peck.
Williams is currently lodged in the Lake County Jail.
Charges filed February 5, 2026:
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Sexual Battery – Victim Compelled to Submit by Force or Imminent Threat of Force (Level 6 Felony)
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Battery (Class B Misdemeanor)