August sentencing set for Mercer County woman convicted in drug death

An August 12 sentencing hearing has been set for a Sharpsville woman who pleaded guilty to felony drug delivery resulting in death in connection with the overdose death of a Transfer, Pennsylvania man.

Melody Lynn Taylor, 49, pleaded guilty on April 25 in Mercer County Court of Common Pleas before Judge Tedd C. Nesbit.

The charges against Taylor stemmed from an investigation that began when police were called to a Delaware Township home on February 2, 2023, after the body of a 37-year-old man was found in the basement. The county coroner determined the man died from an overdose of Fentanyl and Xylazine.

Initial reports indicated that the victim's father had dropped his son off at a friend's house in Sharpsville shortly before his death, with the son stating he planned to walk to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting.

Further investigation by authorities, including the recovery of phone messages, revealed that the victim had allegedly paid Taylor $60 for opiates. Following these findings, Taylor was charged with drug delivery resulting in death, delivery of a controlled substance, and criminal use of a communication facility.

As part of the plea agreement, the charges of manufacturing, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver, and criminal use of a communication facility were dropped by the prosecution.

Drug delivery resulting in death is a first-degree felony in Pennsylvania, carrying a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison. The upcoming sentencing hearing will determine the penalties Taylor will face for her role in the fatal overdose.