Drug dealer convicted of manslaughter for man’s overdose

A Berlin man was convicted of manslaughter for selling heroin to a man who later overdosed and died, authorities tell 47ABC.

Robert Skinkle, 26, was convicted of distribution of heroin, possession of heroin, manslaughter and reckless endangerment.    

Worcester County State’s Attorney Beau Oglesby spoke to 47 ABC exclusively about this case.

He says the man Skinkle sold the drugs to a man that died of an apparent overdose this past November.    

Oglesby says the outcome of this case is significant because oftentimes in cases of overdose, the dealers aren’t held accountable because the drug user administers the drugs themselves.

The Worcester County State’s Attorney says this conviction sends a clear message to those out there selling illicit substances.

“They should know that if they’re going to engage in that behavior and that behavior results in the death of a person, that they can look forward to being charged with manslaughter and possibly spending time in prison,” says Oglesby.

We’re told Skinkle should be sentenced within the next 2 months.