Union Woman Sentenced to 6.5 Years for Drug-Induced Homicide

A woman from Union has been sentenced to 6.5 years in prison following her guilty plea related to the fatal overdose of a Crystal Lake man. Heather L. Schultz, aged 45, entered her plea to the charge of drug-induced homicide, classified as a Class X felony, during a hearing in McHenry County court. The case centers around the overdose death of Andrew Jacobson, a 49-year-old resident of Crystal Lake.

On January 27, 2023, Jacobson succumbed to methadone toxicity, as determined by the coroner. Prosecutors revealed that Schultz sold a diluted 20 mg dose of her prescribed methadone for $100. During the proceedings, then-Assistant State’s Attorney Anthony Marin stated that Schultz had acknowledged selling the methadone to Jacobson.

Details of the Case and Prior Violations

At the time of the incident, Schultz was under a two-year probation for unlawful possession of heroin. Court records indicate that she had violated the terms of her probation multiple times, which included testing positive for fentanyl and failing to report for mandatory support meetings and drug screenings. A petition to revoke her probation detailed these infractions, highlighting her inability to comply with the conditions set by the court.

During the initial court appearance, Judge Cynthia Lamb deemed Schultz a danger to the community, denying her pretrial release. Concerns were raised that even under home confinement, she could continue to sell drugs. Investigators also identified a person named “Tina” who allegedly connected Jacobson with Schultz, facilitating the transaction that ultimately led to his death.

Impact on the Community and Personal Reflections

Jacobson was described in an online obituary as a “quiet and private” individual with a warm heart. He was a dedicated truck driver and had a deep affection for animals, particularly his black lab, Jack, and a cat named Midnight, who had famously jumped into his truck as a kitten. This personal connection underscores the tragic loss felt by his loved ones due to Schultz’s actions.

As part of her sentencing, Schultz is required to serve 75% of her prison term, followed by 18 months of mandatory supervised release. She will receive credit for 206 days already spent in county jail. This case serves as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of drug-related offenses and the ongoing issues surrounding addiction in communities across the region.