Eric Crosslin, Cocaine Distribution, Indiana 2020

Hammond, IN – A Merrillville man is going to prison for his role in distributing cocaine in the region. According to court documents, Eric Crosslin, 37, of Merrillville, Indiana, sold cocaine on six separate occasions in September and October 2020.

Crosslin was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

A search of Crosslin’s properties in Merrillville and Gary resulted in the recovery of firearms, cash, and cocaine, said Johnson. Crosslin’s criminal history revealed he has prior felony convictions for voluntary manslaughter, intimidation while drawing/using a deadly weapon, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Gary Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin M. Padula prosecuted the case.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. The program focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused enforcement priorities, and measuring results.

Crosslin’s sentencing is a result of the PSN strategy launched on May 26, 2021. The program aims to make neighborhoods safer for everyone by addressing the root causes of crime and violence.

In this case, Crosslin was found guilty of distributing cocaine, a serious crime that affects the community. His sentence reflects the severity of the crime and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions.

As the region continues to combat crime and violence, the efforts of law enforcement and the PSN program are crucial in making communities safer and reducing the incidence of serious crimes like cocaine distribution.

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