Downers Grove Man Pleads Guilty In Drug-Induced Homicide Of Teen

DOWNERS GROVE, IL --- A Downers Grove man has pleaded guilty to drug-induced homicide for providing a 15-year-old exchange student with a fatal dose of methadone in May 2016. Francis Emanuele, 38, of the 6100 block of Carpenter Street, also pleaded guilty to indecent solicitation of a child and aggravated criminal sexual assault in connection with the girl's death

On May 3, 2016, the girl, who was staying with a family in Glen Ellyn, told her host parents she was not feeling well and stayed home from school. Hours later, they found her unresponsive in her bed.

During an investigation in the death, police reportedly found a prescription bottle of methadone and a syringe by the girl's bed. Authorities eventually traced the methadone to Emanuele, who reportedly met the victim through an exchange student he was hosting. Police say Emanuele gave the victim methadone and taught her how to use it.

After Emanuele pleaded guilty, DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said, "I would first like to extend my sincerest condolences to this young victim’s family and friends as they continue their struggle to come to terms with this tragic, senseless loss of such a young, promising life. Perhaps Mr. Emanuele’s guilty plea will help them in the healing process and provide some measure of closure."

Emanuele, who faces up to 35 years in prison, will appear in court again on Dec. 17 for pre-sentencing.

Image via DuPage County State's Attorney's Office