Northwest Indiana Man Sentenced for Dealing Heroin, Cocaine

Jeremiah Hicks to Serve Over 12 Years in Federal Prison

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:22pm

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A 38-year-old Hammond, Indiana man named Jeremiah Hicks was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for distributing heroin and cocaine. Hicks had prior felony drug convictions, and a search of his home turned up a semi-automatic pistol and cash.

Why it matters

The sentencing of Hicks highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and local law enforcement to combat the opioid crisis and drug trafficking in Northwest Indiana communities. Repeat offenders like Hicks who continue to deal dangerous narcotics pose a significant threat to public safety.

The details

Hicks pleaded guilty to distributing heroin and cocaine on two occasions in August 2023. During a search of his home, investigators found a semi-automatic pistol and cash. Prosecutors noted that Hicks has multiple prior felony convictions, including a 2012 conviction for possession with intent to distribute and a 2018 conviction for dealing in a narcotic drug.

  • Hicks sold heroin and cocaine to another person on two occasions in August 2023.
  • Hicks was sentenced earlier this week.

The players

Jeremiah Hicks

A 38-year-old man from Hammond, Indiana who was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for distributing heroin and cocaine. Hicks has multiple prior felony drug convictions.

U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred

The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana who commented on the sentencing of Jeremiah Hicks.

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What they’re saying

“The Defendant has forfeited over 12 years of his life because he chose to peddle this poison in our communities.”

— U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis and drug trafficking in Northwest Indiana, where repeat offenders like Hicks continue to pose a threat to public safety despite previous convictions. Law enforcement remains committed to disrupting the supply of dangerous narcotics in the region.