Odilon Ponce Barrera, 51, of Hammond, has been charged in Lake County after police say he threatened his wife with a tow hitch during a domestic disturbance Thursday evening.

According to court documents, Hammond police were dispatched to the 1200 block of Logan Street around 5:52 p.m. on June 4 for a reported domestic disturbance. Officers were directed to a pickup truck where the alleged suspect was located and detained.

Court records allege officers observed numerous open alcohol containers inside the vehicle and noted signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, difficulty maintaining balance, and disheveled clothing.

According to the probable cause affidavit, the victim told police she had arrived home from work and encountered her husband outside the residence. She alleged he was intoxicated and behaving aggressively, causing her to fear for her safety. The victim told investigators she retreated to her vehicle, locked the doors, and rolled up the windows.

Police said the victim reported Barrera used a metal object to strike or attempt to break the driver’s side window and later raised a tow hitch over his head while threatening to kill her. She told officers she drove away from the residence to call 911 before returning after police arrived.

Investigators said the victim appeared visibly distressed, crying and hyperventilating while speaking with officers. The tow hitch was recovered and taken into evidence.

Lodged in the Lake County Jail.

Charges filed June 5, 2026:

• Intimidation While Drawing or Using a Deadly Weapon — Level 5 Felony 

• Intimidation: Threat to Commit a Forcible Felony — Level 6 Felony 

• Intimidation — Class A Misdemeanor