Funeral Home Director May Avoid Jail Time Over Drug Charges

A prominent Shorewood funeral home director who had faced felony drug charges may avoid jail time through an agreement with the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s office.

William R. Feerick agreed to a deferred prosecution agreement this week for charges of possessing prescription pills and marijuana that were filed after a Muskego man in February.

As part of the agreement, Feerick pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a controlled substance, while one count of possession of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, was dismissed.

Although he pleaded guilty to a felony charge, Feerick could see the charges dropped to a misdemeanor and avoid jail time if he doesn’t commit any crimes in the next six months.

"Basically, he has agreed to a series of terms and conditions and in the next six months that if he complies, he will have his charges dropped from a felony to a misdemeanor," said prosecutor Patricia Daughtery.

Feerick, 53, who is co-owner of , was charged after Anthony Vitrano, 23, of Muskego, passed out after doing heroin inside Feerick’s home in the 4300 block of North Wildwood Avenue.

Police found drug paraphernalia inside the home, along with prescription pills and a syringe filled with heroin.

Feerick could have faced 3½ years in prison if convicted under the felony charges.

Feerick's attorney Michael John Steinle didn't return phone calls seeking comment Friday. However, Feerick told Patch earlier this year that none of the drugs found at his residence were his. He also said he was trying to get Vitrano to check into a hospital and seek help for his drug addiction.

Vitrano was also charged with one count of possession of narcotic drugs, which carries a maximum sentence of 3½ years in prison. His case is scheduled for trial Nov. 30.