Henson Given 17 Year Prison Sentence for Drug-Induced Homicide

(PHILLIP HENSON)

Flora resident Phillip Henson pleaded guilty Monday to a Class X Felony count of drug-induced homicide.

The 54-year-old Henson pleaded guilty to the charge in connection with the November 2021 death of Stephanie Harrell. The charge alleged that Henson delivered a substance containing Fentanyl to Harrrell, that Harrell injected the Fentanyl, and that Harrell died from the substance.

Henson was sentenced to 17 years in prison. He must serve at least 75% of the sentence, and will serve a period of 18 months mandatory supervised release once out of prison. The investigation was conducted by the Illinois State Police and assisted by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.

Clay County State’s Attorney Phillip Givens stated, “My office would like to thank the Illinois State Police and Clay County Sheriff’s Office for working so diligently and efficiently in building the evidence in this case. This is another case with multiple agencies working together. The defendant will now serve a substantial period in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Stephanie’s family was also able to make statements in court today. My office will continue to work hard towards the best interest of justice alongside a victim’s family.”