Suspect Charged in Connection With Overdose Death Sentenced to Prison

Tuesday, July 8th, 2025 -- 10:01 AM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) One of the suspects charged in connection with an overdose death in a sober living facility will spend time in prison.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, Shwan Rhyner and Brianne Rhyner are said to have transported the drugs to the victim, who was found dead from an overdose in his sober living apartment in Wausau.

During Brianne Rhyner’s court appearance on Monday, she was found guilty of, due to a no contest plea, manufacture/deliver fentanyl and bail jumping. She was sentenced to 5 years in state prison and 5 years of extended supervision. If she fails at any conditions of her probation, she’ll serve an additional 3 years in state prison and 3 years of extended supervision.

Back in February of last year, Shawn Rhyner was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading no contest to one count of manufacturing or delivering heroin and possessing a short-barrel rifle or shotgun. After his prison time, he will also spend five years on extended supervision.

Back in March of this year, Ledell Kirkwood, who was accused of arranging the purchase and delivery, was found guilty of, due to a no contest plea, reckless homicide-deliver drugs. He also pleaded guilty to two counts of battery and disorderly conduct. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 10 years of extended supervision.

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