Gary Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Robbing Sex Worker

Deandre Gardner pleaded guilty to armed robbery in a case involving a victim he met through a 'quick visit' app.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A 28-year-old Gary man named Deandre Gardner was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to armed robbery. The incident occurred in April 2024 when Gardner robbed a sex worker at gunpoint of just under $60 in a filthy 'trap house' apartment in Gary.

Why it matters

This case highlights the vulnerabilities and risks that sex workers can face, as well as the broader issue of violent crime and the need for improved safety and support services in Gary and other economically-challenged communities.

The details

According to court documents, Gardner met the victim through a 'Text Now' app for a 'quick visit' that was supposed to cost $150. However, when the victim arrived at the apartment, a different man was there who pulled a gun on her, forced her to transfer $38 through a cash app, and took an additional $21 from her purse. The victim said the apartment looked like a filthy 'trap house' filled with garbage and debris.

  • The incident occurred on April 20, 2024.
  • Gardner pleaded guilty to armed robbery in November.
  • He was sentenced to 10 years in prison on February 20, 2026.

The players

Deandre Gardner

A 28-year-old man from Gary, Indiana who pleaded guilty to armed robbery and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The Victim

A sex worker who agreed to meet Gardner for a 'quick visit' through a Text Now app, but was instead robbed at gunpoint by him in a filthy 'trap house' apartment.

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What they’re saying

“You moving too much, stay still. Be quiet.”

— Deandre Gardner (Chicago Tribune)

“(Expletive) that, give me what you got.”

— Deandre Gardner (Chicago Tribune)

“I just wanted to leave and see my children.”

— The Victim, Sex Worker (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

Gardner will remain in prison for the next 10 years as a result of his sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the dangers and vulnerabilities that sex workers can face, as well as the broader need for improved safety, support services, and economic opportunities in disadvantaged communities like Gary to prevent such violent crimes from occurring.