'Black Swan' ballerina Ashley Benefield guilty of manslaughter

Ex-ballerina Ashley Benefield was found guilty of manslaughter Tuesday in a Florida county court, bringing the "Black Swan murder trial" to a close.

A six-person jury deliberated for seven hours before returning their verdict in the Manatee County courtroom. Benefield, 32, faced second-degree murder charges but was convicted of the lesser offense. She could face up to 30 years in prison.

"The sound was as good as the sight," said Tommie Benefield, cousin of Doug Benefield, referring to the clicking of handcuffs as justice was served.

A tumultuous relationship

Ashley and Doug Benefield's relationship was marked by a whirlwind romance, a large age gap, and allegations of domestic abuse. They married 13 days after meeting in 2016. During their marriage, they founded the American National Ballet, which fell apart, and Ashley, a Maryland Youth Ballet graduate, faced domestic abuse allegations, resulting in counseling and litigation.

The day of the shooting

On Sept. 27, 2020, Doug arrived at Ashley's home to help her pack for a move. Her defense argued that an argument escalated, and she shot him in self-defense. However, prosecutors claimed she killed him to end their reconciliation efforts and desired to be a single mother. Outside witnesses heard gunshots and saw Ashley running with a gun, screaming and crying.

Read more:

• https://abc7.com/black-swan-ballerina-ashley-benefield-found-guilty-of-manslaughter-in-husbands-killing/11767973/
• https://www.insider.com/black-swan-ballerina-ashley-benefield-found-guilty-manslaughter-2023-8