Kennedy Paige Carter, 27, of Portage, faces a felony neglect charge after police say she left her two young children home alone before being stopped for a traffic violation on November 30.
According to the affidavit, officers observed a 2014 Kia Optima at U.S. 20 and County Line Road allegedly speeding, weaving, and running a stop light. A license check revealed Carter’s license had been previously suspended, and she reportedly admitted knowing it was suspended.
During the stop, Carter told police she had left her 5-year-old and 1-year-old children at home while she was “only stopping at a gas station,” but the officer noted her direction of travel did not match this statement. It was unclear how long the children had been alone or how long they might have remained without supervision.
The affidavit states Carter did not inform officers where she was going or why the children were left alone. Police noted that no one nearby could care for the children, so officers contacted friends of Carter to ensure the children were properly supervised.
Charges filed December 1, 2025:
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Neglect of a Dependent — Level 6 Felony
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Driving While Suspended (Prior) — Class A Misdemeanor
Carter is lodged in the Porter County Jail.