Officials in Columbiana Co. treat ’08 death as homicide

By D.a. Wilkinson

Officials initially did not think there was foul play in the shooting death.

LISBON — Officials said Thursday that they have a homicide case from last year but are saying little more.

Sherry L. Ieropoli, 47, of 10984 state Route 45 near Lisbon, was pronounced dead at her home Aug. 28, 2008.

The house is in Center Township.

Columbiana County Prosecutor Robert Herron said at least two shots were fired from a .22-caliber semiautomatic rifle.

Ieropoli’s husband, Nicholas, whose age was not available, and her son, Jesse, 17, were in the house, authorities said at the time. Jesse is now an adult, according to officials.

Columbiana County Coroner Dr. William Graham had the Cuyahoga County Coroner’s office do an autopsy.

The results of the autopsy led to tests by the Ohio Bureau of Identification and Investigation.

Dr. Graham said he would not discuss the tests or results.

Herron said the autopsy and lab tests routinely take a long time, Herron said.

The prosecutor added, “The sheriff’s office has an ongoing investigation” into the case.

When that investigation is concluded, he said, any decisions on action will be made.

Neither Sheriff Ray Stone nor his investigators could be reached to comment.

Officials initially announced they found no foul play in the death.

wilkinson@vindy.com