Fort Wayne Man Larry Norton Nabbed in Heroin & Cocaine Ring

FORT WAYNE, IN – Larry Norton, 66, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, is facing serious time after a federal jury found him guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine. The verdict came after a grueling six-day trial presided over by Chief Judge Theresa L. Springmann of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.

The case, spearheaded by Acting United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson, details a large-scale drug operation spanning from October 2014 to January 2015. Norton wasn’t working alone. Documents filed with the court reveal a conspiracy involving at least five individuals, all allegedly working together to flood the Northern District of Indiana – and beyond – with narcotics.

Prosecutors laid out evidence showing Norton and his co-conspirators moved a substantial quantity of drugs: over 1 kilogram of heroin and more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. This wasn’t small-time dealing; it was a calculated effort to profit from the misery of addiction, and the feds have been building this case for years. Four other defendants named in the indictment have already cut deals, pleading guilty and are now awaiting their sentencing dates.

The investigation was a collaborative effort led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the FBI Fort Wayne Safe Streets Task Force. The task force brought together resources from the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Fort Wayne Police Department, and the Indiana State Police – a clear demonstration of multi-agency cooperation to dismantle this criminal network. Sources within the investigation say this bust will significantly disrupt the flow of heroin and cocaine into the Fort Wayne area.

Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Stacey Speith prosecuted the case, meticulously building a case based on evidence gathered through surveillance, informants, and likely, a mountain of paperwork. No sentencing date has been set for Norton, but given the quantities of drugs involved and his role in the conspiracy, he’s looking at a lengthy prison term. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves toward sentencing.

This conviction serves as a stark warning: federal law enforcement is actively targeting drug trafficking organizations in Indiana. The coordinated effort between agencies signals a commitment to dismantling these networks and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. The streets of Fort Wayne are a little safer tonight, but the fight against drug crime is far from over.