Police Recover Stolen Pharmaceuticals Following High Speed Chase into La Porte County
A large quantity of suspected stolen prescription drugs was recovered and two Michigan men were taken into custody Thursday morning following a high-speed pursuit that ended in La Porte County, the Chesterton Police Department announced.
At approximately 11:24 a.m. on May 29, CPD Sgt. Eric Lisoski was conducting a DEA-funded interdiction patrol on Interstate 94 when a license plate reader alerted him to a stolen Minnesota license plate on an eastbound SUV. The vehicle was reportedly fleeing Crown Point Police at the time.
Lisoski located the SUV near the 24-mile marker, west of the State Road 49 exit. According to CPD officials, the SUV was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph and weaving dangerously through traffic, including in a construction zone. The pursuit continued southbound on U.S. 421 before the driver lost control and rolled the vehicle into a ditch near County Road 50 North in unincorporated La Porte County.
The two male occupants attempted to flee on foot into a wooded area but were quickly apprehended after a short chase. One suspect was subdued using a Taser, and no injuries were reported among officers or civilians.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of more than 200 bottles of prescription medication, including narcotics, as well as items believed to be linked to recent pharmacy burglaries in New Brighton, Minnesota.
The suspects were identified as William Lee Anthony, 28, of Detroit, and Keonta Dure Anthony, 26, of Redford. William Anthony faces multiple felony charges, including resisting law enforcement, possession of a narcotic drug, possession of a legend drug, false identity statement, reckless driving, and theft. Keonta Anthony is charged with possession of a narcotic drug, possession of a legend drug, and resisting law enforcement.
Both men were taken to a local hospital for medical clearance and are currently being held at the Porter County Jail pending extradition proceedings and further investigation. CPD officials confirmed that local authorities in Minnesota are coordinating with Indiana law enforcement regarding the case.
Assistant Police Chief Cisco Rodriguez praised the swift and coordinated response of all involved agencies.
“This incident highlights the effectiveness of interagency cooperation and the vital role of technology in modern policing,” said Rodriguez. “Sgt. Lisoski’s quick action, along with support from our regional partners, helped bring this dangerous situation to a safe conclusion.”
Rodriguez emphasized the broader public safety risks of black-market pharmaceuticals.
“While prescription drugs serve critical roles when used properly under medical supervision, they can be lethal when diverted to illicit channels,” he said.
The Chesterton Police Department extended gratitude to the Crown Point and Porter police departments, as well as the Lake and LaPorte County Sheriff’s Departments, for their assistance during the pursuit and subsequent investigation.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
