Former Scout Gets Life Sentence for Cocaine Poisoning

Former scout Blaise Taylor has received two consecutive life sentences for the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Jade Benning, and their unborn daughter. The sentences mean Taylor will spend the remainder of his life in prison.

On February 25, 2023, Taylor intentionally put a fatal dose of cocaine into Benning's pink lemonade at her Nashville apartment. He then contacted 911, falsely claiming Benning was suffering an allergic reaction. Toxicology reports later confirmed the presence of cocaine, contradicting Taylor's account and leading to his conviction.

Jade Benning remained on life support until March 6, 2023, her 25th birthday, before she passed away. Their unborn daughter died two days prior, on February 27, 2023. Following a 10-day trial in Nashville, a jury found Taylor guilty of second-degree murder, first-degree murder for the unborn child, and felony murder.

Taylor's legal defense is planning an appeal, but the judge's sentencing ensures he faces life imprisonment. The prosecution highlighted Taylor's lack of remorse during the proceedings.