A judge sentenced a Gary man to six years Tuesday in a deadly drug deal that killed a Hammond councilman’s son.

Anthony Polk, 34, pleaded guilty Aug. 29 to reckless homicide and dealing in cocaine.

The victim, James “Jimmy” Woerpel, 39, of Hammond, died Jan. 7, 2024 from an overdose. A toxicology report found fentanyl, cocaine and xylazine in his system, according to court records. Hammond Police responded that day to the 3000 block of 163rd Place, where they found Woerpel. He was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Deputy Prosecutor Jacob Brandewie painted Polk as responsible for his death, while defense lawyer Kerry Connor argued for nuance, saying Polk sold him about $100 worth of crack cocaine, while Woerpel was found with “a lot of drugs.”

Tina Woerpel told the court she goes to

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