Former Tennessee Titans scout and college football player Blaise Taylor has been sentenced to two consecutive life sentences, along with an additional 22 years in prison, after being convicted in the deaths of his pregnant girlfriend, Jade Benning, and their unborn child.
The sentence was handed down in Nashville on September 9, following Taylor’s conviction earlier this year on multiple murder charges connected to Benning’s death and the death of her unborn daughter. Taylor’s defense has indicated that it intends to appeal the verdict and sentence.
Taylor Accused of Poisoning Pregnant Girlfriend
The case dates back to February 25, 2023, when Taylor contacted emergency services for Benning, who was approximately five months pregnant. He reportedly told 911 dispatchers that she appeared to be suffering from an allergic reaction.
Benning’s condition rapidly deteriorated. Her unborn child died two days later, while Benning died on March 6, 2023 — her 25th birthday.
During the trial, medical examiners testified that Benning died after consuming a dangerous combination involving a large amount of cocaine and alcohol. Prosecutors alleged that Taylor deliberately put cocaine dissolved in alcohol into a pink lemonade he gave Benning. They argued that he wanted to prevent the birth of the child, who prosecutors said he believed was his.
Jury Convicted Taylor on Multiple Murder Counts
Taylor’s trial concluded with a unanimous jury verdict after roughly two hours of deliberation. He was convicted of charges involving both Benning and her unborn daughter, including murder and felony-murder counts.
The case received significant attention because Taylor had previously built a career in football. He played defensive back at Arkansas State before working in the Tennessee Titans’ scouting department. He later worked as a defensive analyst in college football.
At sentencing, prosecutors also pointed to 87 character letters submitted on Taylor’s behalf. Assistant District Attorney Jan Norman noted that while the letters described Taylor positively, none of them referred to Benning, her unborn daughter, or the conduct for which he had been convicted.
Defense Plans Appeal After Life Sentences
Taylor’s attorney, Letitia Quinones-Hollins, criticized the outcome following the sentencing and said the defense intends to challenge the case on appeal.
The defense described the trial as flawed and the case as weak, while expressing disappointment with the punishment imposed. Taylor will serve the two life sentences consecutively, followed by an additional 22-year term.
The sentencing brings the criminal proceedings at the trial-court level to a close, although an appeal could potentially lead to further legal proceedings in the case.
