Three charged in Cook County cocaine bust

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two women and a man were arrested and charged with dealing crack cocaine from a home in the south suburban Ford Heights area of Cook County. Police recovered suspected crack, cash, baggies, and a digital scale during a search of the residence.

Why it matters

This bust is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on the distribution of illegal drugs, particularly crack cocaine, which has had devastating impacts on many communities. The arrests highlight the persistent challenge of addressing the opioid crisis and drug trade in the Chicago metropolitan area.

The details

On February 26, Cook County Sheriff's police executed a search warrant on a residence in the 1600 block of Greenwood Avenue in Ford Heights after receiving a tip about drug dealing at the location. During the search, police recovered approximately 7 grams of suspected crack cocaine, plastic baggies, cash, and a digital scale. Sally Villagomez, 56, Alexis Barnes, 30, and Darren Richardson, 39, were arrested and charged with manufacture/delivery of cocaine. Villagomez was also charged with possession of a controlled substance.

• On February 26, 2026, Cook County Sheriff's police executed a search warrant on the Ford Heights residence.
• The three defendants were arrested and charged on February 26, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The three defendants were released from custody the day after their arrests following detention hearings at the Markham Courthouse. The judge will determine if they will be allowed out on bail as the case proceeds.