A narcotics investigation in Gary that documented cocaine transactions in March has led to felony charges against two individuals following the execution of a search warrant, according to court records.
The investigation centered on a residence in the 2200 block of Delaware Street, where authorities documented two cocaine transactions:
Between March 16 and March 23, 2026, approximately 1.34 grams of cocaine
Between March 23 and March 30, 2026, approximately 1.14 grams of cocaine
Based on those findings, a search warrant was obtained and executed on April 8, 2026.
Inside the residence, officers located Willie Lee Cox Jr., 72, and Latoya Smith, 62, both of whom identified themselves.
According to a probable cause affidavit, authorities recovered:
24 individually packaged straws containing approximately 11.93 grams of heroin from Cox’s person
0.27 grams of a substance that field-tested positive for heroin in a bedroom associated with Smith
A Canik 9mm handgun in a separate bedroom linked to Cox
Investigators stated the quantity of heroin, along with individual packaging and the presence of a firearm, indicated the narcotics were possessed with intent to deliver.
Court records show Cox has prior convictions for dealing in narcotic drugs in Lake County, making him a serious violent felon under Indiana law and prohibiting him from possessing a firearm.
Both suspects are lodged in the Lake County Jail.
Charges filed April 8,2025:
Willie Lee Cox Jr.:
• Dealing in a narcotic drug (Level 2 felony) — possession with intent to distribute more than 10 grams
• Dealing in cocaine (Level 3 felony) — between 1 and 5 grams, enhancing circumstance (2 counts)
• Dealing in cocaine (Level 4 felony) — between 1 and 5 grams (2 counts)
• Unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon (Level 4 felony)
• Maintaining a common nuisance involving controlled substances (Level 6 felony)
Latoya Smith :
• Possession of a narcotic drug (Level 6 felony)
