Bob Kasarda

PORTAGE — A 29-year-old Valparaiso-area man is charged with molesting a 12-year-old girl he knew at a local hotel on New Year's Day 2024, records show.

David Litzau is charged with three counts of child molesting and is being held without bond at the Porter County Jail until his initial hearing Thursday.

The girl reportedly told police she was dropped off to stay at the hotel with a family member because her mother was in the hospital.

During the New Year's Eve overnight visit, she said Litzau placed his hand over her mouth and sexually abused her while others slept or played video games nearby, according to police.

The girl said she and Litzau exchanged text messages for several weeks and he provided her with various gifts. The communication ended when it was discovered b

See Full Page