PRINCETON — A Tonica man is headed to prison for dealing heroin.

Christopher M. Hess, 40, was sentenced by Bureau County Circuit Judge Marc Bernabei to 14 years for the Class 1 felony of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (heroin).

On Aug. 27, 2020, Hess sold approximately four grams of heroin to a police informant for $200. This was done in the presence of an agent with the Tri-DENT drug task force. A warrant was issued for his arrest and when he was arrested on Nov. 24 he admitted to selling the heroin to support his drug habit.

Hess has an extensive criminal history and was on parole for a burglary offense at the time he committed this offense.

Hess pleaded guilty to the charges on Dec. 31. He’s credited for 37 days previously served. Due to his prior criminal history, mandatory Class X sentencing applied. He was also ordered to pay fines, fees and costs totaling $3,425 due within six months of his release.

The case was prosecuted by Bureau County State’s Attorney Geno Caffarini. Hess was represented by Bureau County Public Defender Ray Nolasco.