A former ballerina, Ashley Benefield, 33, has been convicted of manslaughter by a jury in Manatee County, Florida. This verdict comes after the highly publicized 'Black Swan murder' case involving the death of her husband, Doug Benefield, in 2020.
Originally charged with second-degree murder, Ashley Benefield claimed self-defense in the fatal shooting of her husband. She alleged that she shot Doug after he refused to leave her house and hit her in the face. Her defense invoked Florida's 'Stand Your Ground' law, which allows the use of deadly force to prevent death, serious injury, or certain felonies without the obligation to retreat.
The couple, who lived separately in Charleston, South Carolina, reunited in Florida after Ashley gave birth to their child. However, they did not reside together, and Ashley accused Doug of psychological abuse in an attempt to gain sole custody of their daughter, although these claims were never proven.
During the hearing, Doug's family attorney testified about the custody battle and Ashley's allegations of poisoning, gun discharge, and animal abuse by her husband. The attorney described Ashley as a 'Black Swan,' portraying her as deceptive and malevolent beneath a facade of innocence.
Following the verdict, Doug's daughter from a previous marriage, Eva Benefield, expressed relief on social media, stating that her father finally received the justice he deserved after four years of waiting. A sentencing date for Ashley Benefield has yet to be determined.
