A former ballerina, Ashley Benefield, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the manslaughter of her husband, Doug Benefield, in the infamous 'Black Swan' murder case. The incident occurred in 2020 in Florida during a custody battle over their daughter.
Benefield, 33, was found guilty of fatally shooting her 58-year-old husband in their Lakewood Ranch home. The sentencing, which took place on Monday, included 20 years in prison with credit for time served, followed by 10 years of probation.
During the court proceedings, Doug's daughter, Eva Benefield, delivered an emotional victim impact statement, expressing her pain and disappointment in her stepmother. She highlighted the vulnerability her father faced and the impact of his loss on their family.
The case, dubbed the 'Black Swan' case, saw Benefield initially charged with second-degree murder before being convicted of manslaughter. The prosecution painted her as a deceptive figure, referring to her as a 'Black Swan' hiding behind a facade of innocence.
Benefield claimed self-defense in the shooting, alleging that her husband posed a threat to her life. However, investigators found no evidence of physical abuse on her following the incident.
Accusations of psychological abuse and poisoning made by Benefield against her husband were disputed by prosecutors, who argued that they were fabricated to gain custody of their daughter.
As part of the sentencing, Benefield was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation upon release from prison due to a PTSD diagnosis. The case has drawn attention for its tragic circumstances and the complex dynamics between the parties involved.
