Housecleaner Accused of Stealing Credit Card from Chesterton Home

Haley A. Cline faces multiple fraud charges for allegedly using victim's credit card without authorization

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A 29-year-old housecleaner from Steger, Illinois named Haley A. Cline has been charged with multiple counts of fraud for allegedly stealing a credit card from a Chesterton, Indiana residence where she was working and then making unauthorized purchases totaling nearly $200 at nearby stores.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks homeowners face when allowing service workers into their homes, as well as the potential for repeat offenses by individuals with prior theft convictions. It also raises questions about the hiring practices and oversight of home cleaning agencies.

The details

According to court records, Cline was working for a house cleaning agency that had been hired by a Chesterton man. The man reported his Capital One credit card missing after unauthorized transactions totaling $199.92 were made at Aldi, Dollar General, and Jewel-Osco stores. Surveillance footage and license plate information linked Cline to the crimes, and she later admitted to using the stolen card, saying she was "hard up for cash" and only used it for grocery items.

  • On January 20, the Chesterton man reported his credit card missing and the unauthorized transactions.
  • On January 27, Lt. Justin Frever of the Chesterton Police Department contacted Cline, who initially denied knowledge but later admitted to using the stolen card.
  • Cline is scheduled for a hearing on February 18 in Porter Superior Court 1.

The players

Haley A. Cline

A 29-year-old housecleaner from Steger, Illinois who is accused of stealing a credit card from a Chesterton residence and making unauthorized purchases.

Chesterton man

The victim who hired the cleaning agency that employed Cline and reported his credit card stolen and unauthorized transactions made on it.

Chesterton Police Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the case and contacting Cline about the alleged crimes.

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What they’re saying

“She initially denied knowing anything, but later admitted that she used a credit card that she had taken from a Chesterton residence.”

— Lt. Justin Frever, of the Chesterton Police Department

“Cline stated she was 'hard up for cash' and only used the credit card for grocery items. She admitted her actions were wrong.”

— Haley A. Cline

What’s next

Cline posted a surety bond and is scheduled for a hearing on February 18 in Porter Superior Court 1, where the judge will determine if she will face further legal consequences for the alleged crimes.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for homeowners to be cautious when allowing service workers into their homes, as well as the importance of thorough background checks and oversight of home cleaning agencies to prevent repeat offenses by individuals with prior theft convictions.