Reginald Gardner, 52, of Detroit, Michigan, has been charged in Porter County following an Indiana State Police traffic stop that led to the seizure of approximately 30 grams of suspected cocaine and approximately 240 grams of suspected marijuana.
According to court documents, an Indiana State Police trooper observed a white SUV traveling westbound near the 23-mile marker on Interstate 94 in Porter County on the morning of May 14, 2026, when the vehicle allegedly drifted into another lane without signaling. Investigators stated the SUV was stopped near the 21-mile marker.
The probable cause affidavit states the trooper immediately detected a strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from the SUV and observed marijuana dispensary products in plain view on the front passenger seat. Court records state Gardner was the sole occupant of the vehicle and told police he was traveling to Chicago to “go shopping,” primarily for clothes for the approaching winter season.
According to court documents, investigators learned Gardner was on federal probation for narcotics violations out of Michigan. Police stated Gardner admitted to having “a small amount” of marijuana inside the SUV before troopers searched the vehicle. The affidavit states Gardner’s breathing became heavy after being told the SUV would be searched.
Investigators reported locating a black leather bag containing suspected marijuana and a separate package containing a white substance believed to be cocaine. Police also reported locating a backpack containing 16 packages of dispensary marijuana products. Court records state Gardner later admitted “the white substance was cocaine.”
According to the affidavit, troopers later conducted a field test on the substance, which allegedly tested positive for cocaine and weighed approximately 30 grams. Court documents state the marijuana recovered during the investigation weighed approximately 240 grams and included raw marijuana, oil, edibles, and wax products.
Lodged in the Porter County Jail.
Charges filed May 14,2026:
• Dealing in Cocaine — Level 2 Felony
• Dealing in Marijuana — Level 6 Felony
