INDIANAPOLIS – An investigation conducted by the Indiana Office of Inspector General, assisted by the Indiana Department of Transportation, has resulted in level 6 felony criminal charges against former INDOT employee Cordell Ross.
The Lake County prosecutor charged Ross with two felony charges of theft and official misconduct. Each felony charge carries a possible penalty of two and a half years in prison.
Ross is alleged to have made 752 unauthorized fuel purchases of 13,122.32 gallons of gas between January 1, 2024, and April 28, 2025, resulting in a total loss to the State of $40,573.64.
The Lake County Superior Court found probable cause on September 15.
“The evidence our office uncovered made clear that these allegations warranted referral to the Lake County prosecutor,” said Indiana Inspector General Jared Prentice. “The prosecutors’ decisions to move forward reinforce that fact, and it sends a firm message that state employees entrusted to serve Hoosiers must steward public resources with integrity – and anyone violating public trust must be held accountable.”
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
