Lake County Gazette

A woman has been charged with drug-induced homicide following a fentanyl-related death in Lake Forest, Illinois. In July 2023, Lake Forest Police responded to a reported overdose at a residence where the victim was pronounced dead. The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the cause of death as "fentanyl toxicity."

An investigation by the Lake Forest Police Department, assisted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), revealed that the victim had arranged to purchase fentanyl from Mercedes Tello, 48, shortly before dying. It was also discovered that the victim had previously bought drugs from Tello.

The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office approved one count of drug-induced homicide against Tello, and an arrest warrant was issued. Tello appeared in court on July 18 for her first appearance hearing.

Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart commented on the situation: "Fentanyl, heroin, and other drugs are killing people in every community in Lake County. We must compassionately provide treatment to those in need, innovatively engage in harm reduction to save lives, and investigate, arrest, and incarcerate those who cause the death of others by dealing these drugs."

Lake Forest Police Chief John Burke said: "This case reflects the hard work and persistence of our officers and partners at the DEA. We will continue to do everything we can to seek justice for victims and hold drug dealers accountable for the harm they cause."

State’s Attorney Rinehart added: "The Lake Forest Police Department and the DEA did a fantastic job, and this investigation shows that we will find those who cause the death of someone through drug dealing – no matter how long it takes."

Information from this article can be found here.