Alfonzo Lewins Jr., 22, of Gary, is facing a felony charge after police allegedly recovered a reported stolen handgun during a late-night traffic stop in Hammond.
According to court documents, police were patrolling near Michigan Street and Columbia Avenue around 11:27 p.m. on May 5, 2026, when an officer observed a gray Ford Escape traveling eastbound through the 1700 block of Michigan Street. Police alleged the officer detected the odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle while following behind it and also observed the vehicle traveling approximately 25 mph in a posted 20 mph zone.
Court documents state police initiated a traffic stop near the 1800 block of Michigan Street. As officers approached the vehicle, police alleged Lewins raised both hands out of the driver’s side window. According to the affidavit, Lewins allegedly told officers he did not possess a driver’s license.
Police alleged Lewins denied having any weapons or illegal drugs inside the vehicle. Officers later searched the vehicle after continuing to smell burnt marijuana coming from inside, according to court documents.
Investigators stated officers located a green leafy substance consistent with marijuana inside the vehicle ashtray. Police further alleged officers discovered a black and dark green 9mm Taurus G3 handgun wedged between the center console and driver’s seat. Court documents state police later confirmed through dispatch that the handgun had been reported stolen through the Griffith Police Department.
According to court documents, the owner of the handgun later told investigators the firearm had been stolen from his vehicle while parked at Avenue 912 in Griffith on Nov. 29, 2025. The owner allegedly stated he did not give anyone permission to take the handgun and did not know Lewins.
Lodged in the Lake County Jail.
Charge filed May 7,2026:
Theft – Firearm, Level 5 Felony
