Livingston County, IL – A Dwight man has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after being convicted in connection with a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in July 2024.
According to the Livingston County State’s Attorney’s Office, Ernest Petro was sentenced this week after investigators determined he was responsible for delivering fentanyl that led to the death of an adult male in Dwight on July 31, 2024. Police and EMS responded to a call for medical aid and found the victim unconscious. He was later pronounced dead, with the cause determined to be fentanyl-related.
The Illinois State Police conducted an independent investigation alongside Dwight Police. Authorities reported that text communications tied Petro to the victim and confirmed he allegedly provided the drugs. Law enforcement said those messages demonstrated Petro delivered the fentanyl that caused the victim’s death.
Court records show Petro was found guilty of drug-induced homicide and sentenced to 18 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. He must serve at least 75 percent of the sentence, followed by an 18-month period of mandatory supervised release.
Family members of the victim were present in court, maintaining an active role throughout proceedings. Prosecutors credited their involvement and persistence in bringing attention to the case.
The Dwight Police Department assisted in the investigation, which highlighted the ongoing dangers of fentanyl in Illinois communities. Officials continue to warn residents about the rising risks associated with the synthetic opioid, which has been linked to a growing number of fatal overdoses statewide.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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