Eric L. Williams, 60, faces felony and misdemeanor charges after court documents allege he forced sexual contact with a coworker inside the Jewel Osco located in the 1200 block of Main Street in Crown Point during the early morning hours of February 4.
According to the probable cause affidavit, officers responded to the store at approximately 6:33 a.m. regarding a report of an unwanted kiss and inappropriate touching that allegedly occurred around 2:10 a.m. while both individuals were on duty. Dispatch later updated the call, advising that the suspect had left the store and also worked at Luke Gas Station in the 9200 block of Taft Street in Merrillville.
The victim told police she was working in aisle 1 when Williams approached her and began touching her inappropriately. She said she told him to stop, but he came up behind her and pressed his body against hers, stating feel how hard I am. She reported that he grabbed her and said I can do for you what your husband can’t.
She told officers she attempted to remove herself from the situation but felt afraid of him. She stated that Williams placed his hands on her buttocks, reached between her legs, and slid his hand upward. She reported that he then kissed her on the lips and told her you look mad before asking her to give him a hug.
The victim eventually moved to another aisle where another individual was present. She later went to the break room and reported the incident.
Police reviewed surveillance footage, which showed Williams entering aisle 1 around 2:06 a.m., and the victim leaving the area around 2:18 a.m. with another person.
After examining the footage, officers went to Luke Gas Station in Merrillville and found Williams working at the register.
After officers read him his Miranda rights, Williams stated that the contact was consensual and described it as two hugs and a peck.
Williams was lodged in the Lake County Jail.
Charges filed February 5, 2026:
• Sexual Battery – Victim Compelled To Submit By Force Or Imminent Threat Of Force (Level 6 Felony)
• Battery (Class B Misdemeanor)