6: Is 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield A Liar Or A Victim?-WEEK IN REVIEW
Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news. This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events. Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience. Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
20 Juli 20248min
What To Expect In The Upcoming 'Black Swan' Murder Trial of Ashley Benefield
In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott joins to discuss the upcoming murder trial of former ballerina Ashley Benefield. Benefield is accused of fatally shooting her husband, Doug Benefield, under claims of self-defense, citing abuse and the need to protect herself while pregnant. However, courts have found her allegations of abuse lacking credibility. Scott explores the complexity of determining the truth in such cases, highlighting the potential use of psychological evaluations to identify Battered Woman Syndrome (BWS), a subset of PTSD resulting from prolonged abuse. Scott explains that BWS manifests as alternating periods of anxiety and depression, hyper-vigilance, and sleep problems, impacting victims profoundly. Scott emphasizes the difficulty in evaluating the veracity of abuse claims, noting that psychological assessments can be crucial in discerning genuine cases from fabricated ones. Scott underscores that inconsistencies in a person's story, especially when told differently over time, can indicate deceit. Psychological tests like the MMPI can help detect lies and personality constructs, providing valuable insights. The conversation also delves into the possibility that individuals with intense personalities might exaggerate or believe their own fabricated narratives, as seen in cases like Sherry Papini's. Scott concludes by acknowledging the prevalence of false abuse claims, particularly in child custody battles, and the significant challenges in separating truth from deception. **Bullet Points:** - Ashley Benefield accused of murdering husband Doug Benefield, claiming self-defense due to abuse. - Courts have found her abuse allegations not credible. - Discussion on the potential use of psychological evaluations to identify Battered Woman Syndrome (BWS). - BWS is a subset of PTSD caused by prolonged abuse, leading to anxiety, depression, hyper-vigilance, and sleep problems. - Psychological assessments are crucial in determining the truth of abuse claims. - Inconsistencies in stories can indicate deceit; psychological tests like the MMPI can help detect lies. - Individuals with intense personalities might exaggerate or believe their own fabricated narratives. - Prevalence of false abuse claims, especially in child custody battles, adds to the complexity of such cases. #AshleyBenefield #DougBenefield #ShavaunScott #BatteredWomanSyndrome #PTSD #FalseAbuseClaims #PsychologicalEvaluation Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
19 Juli 202410min
Is 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield A Liar Or A Victim?
In this episode of "Hidden Killers with Tony Brueski," the conversation revolves around the upcoming trial of Ashley Benefield, known as the Black Swan murder trial. Ashley, a ballerina, married Doug Benefield just 13 days after meeting him, despite a significant age difference. Initially, their relationship seemed stable, but it deteriorated after she became pregnant. Ashley accused Doug of abuse, attempted poisoning, and threats of violence. However, these claims were dismissed in court due to a lack of evidence. The court found no credibility in her allegations, and a friend of Doug's from the military also debunked her accusations. Despite her claims, Doug's daughter spoke positively of him, which undermines Ashley's narrative of abuse. The discussion highlights inconsistencies in Ashley's testimonies, especially regarding how Doug allegedly threatened her with a gun. The fact that Ashley had a neighbor make the 911 call after shooting Doug adds to the suspicion of premeditation. Both Tony Brueski and Robin Dreeke express skepticism about Ashley's claims, noting that the evidence does not support her story. They emphasize the importance of verifying claims of victimhood with solid data, pointing out the gaps in Ashley's narrative as the trial approaches. ### Main Points - **Relationship Timeline:** Ashley Benefield married Doug Benefield 13 days after meeting him, despite a significant age difference. - **Accusations of Abuse:** Ashley claimed Doug abused and threatened her, including attempted poisoning and violent threats. - **Court Dismissal:** The court found no evidence to support Ashley's claims, undermining her credibility. - **Testimony Inconsistencies:** Ashley's statements about Doug threatening her with a gun had inconsistencies, damaging her case. - **911 Call Suspicion:** Ashley had a neighbor make the 911 call after the shooting, raising questions about her intentions. - **Skepticism and Evidence:** Both Tony Brueski and Robin Dreeke express doubt about Ashley's story due to the lack of supporting evidence. - **Upcoming Trial:** The trial, dubbed the Black Swan murder trial, is set to begin soon, with many unanswered questions about the case. ### Relevant Hashtags #AshleyBenefield #DougBenefield #BlackSwanMurderTrial #DomesticAbuseClaims #CourtInconsistencies #911CallSuspicion #TonyBrueski Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
18 Juli 20248min
Supporters of Ashley Benefield March in Bradenton Ahead of Ex-Ballerina Murder Trial
More than two dozen protesters gathered outside the Manatee County Courthouse in downtown Bradenton on Wednesday morning to support Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina accused of murdering her estranged husband. Benefield, 32, faces charges of second-degree murder for the death of her husband, Doug Benefield, a case set to go to trial on July 22. The case has garnered significant media attention, inspiring podcasts, true-crime TV shows like CBS’s “48 Hours,” and drawing Court TV coverage. Ashley Benefield’s supporters argue that she acted in self-defense and that there should not be a murder trial. Supporters, holding signs that read “We stand with Ashley,” “There is nothing illegal about defending your life,” and “Believe victims of domestic violence,” gathered to voice their disapproval of the charges. Barbara Russell, a social worker and mental health professional among the demonstrators, stated, “Ashley Benefield was doing what every American has a right to do, and that is defend her life in her own home.” She described the charges as a “miscarriage of justice,” adding, “That’s why people are out today demanding justice.” On September 27, 2020, Ashley Benefield ran to a neighbor’s house in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, claiming she had shot her husband in self-defense. Doug Benefield, who was 58 at the time, had gunshot wounds to his right leg, right arm, and chest. He died later that night in the hospital. Four .45 caliber casings were found on the floor of Ashley's bedroom, along with a bullet on the floor and two more embedded in the walls. Court documents reveal the Benefields had a history of domestic issues, including a contentious custody battle over their child. Ashley Benefield and her lawyer have argued she was a victim of Doug's repeated abuse, including stalking, physical violence, and an incident where Doug allegedly shot a gun into the ceiling. However, Judge Whyte, following a Stand Your Ground hearing, ruled that Ashley was not entitled to immunity from prosecution. Prosecutors Suzanne O’Donnell and Rebecca Freel argued that Doug’s death was not a singular act of self-defense but the result of a "lengthy, concerted effort." Catherine Dolan, who marched alongside her 13-year-old daughter, Carolina, expressed concern that prosecuting Ashley could discourage other domestic violence survivors from defending themselves. “This outcome is disheartening for survivors of domestic violence and victims’ advocates,” Dolan said. “I hope this case can lead to some positive change.” Ashley Benefield’s lawyer, Neil Taylor, stated, “Our law firm supports and stands behind Ashley Benefield 100%,” emphasizing that “domestic violence is an epidemic in America and bias against women permeates all our institutions.” The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office previously stated that detectives found “no evidence that” Ashley Benefield “was acting in self-defense when she fired multiple shots at her husband” and that there were “no signs that she had been physically abused.” Ashley Benefield appeared in court for a hearing this week, with her trial scheduled for July 22 at 8:30 a.m. If convicted, she faces up to life in prison for second-degree murder with a firearm, according to Florida Statutes. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 Juli 202415min
Ballerina Murder Trial — FL v. Ashley Benefield — Pretrial Hearing PART 1
Welcome to a special episode of "The Trial of Ashley Benefield," where today, we delve into the gripping case that has captured the nation's attention. Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina, stands accused of second-degree murder in the death of her husband, Douglas Benefield. As we set the stage for this high-stakes courtroom drama, let's summarize the events that have led us here. In September 2020, Ashley Benefield fled to a neighbor's house in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, claiming she had just shot her husband in self-defense after enduring months of alleged abuse. Douglas Benefield, found with multiple gunshot wounds to his leg, arm, and chest, succumbed to his injuries. Ashley's story of self-defense stands at the heart of this case. The couple's tumultuous relationship began in 2016 when Ashley, then a 24-year-old model and ballerina, met Douglas, a 54-year-old Navy veteran and technology consultant, at a Republican fundraiser in Palm Beach. They married just two weeks later. Douglas, recently widowed, supported Ashley's dream to start a ballet company, leading to the creation of the short-lived American National Ballet in Charleston, South Carolina. Their relationship deteriorated rapidly after the birth of their child in March 2018. A bitter custody battle ensued, marked by Ashley's accusations of domestic violence and attempts to keep Douglas away from their baby. However, a judge found Ashley's allegations to lack credibility. On September 27, 2020, a frantic 911 call was made by a neighbor, reporting Ashley's claim that she shot Douglas in self-defense. First responders found Douglas with gunshot wounds suggesting he was not facing Ashley when he was shot, nor in a defensive stance, casting doubt on her self-defense claim. As Ashley Benefield heads to trial, the courtroom will scrutinize forensic evidence, the couple's fraught history, and Ashley's own statements. The prosecution argues that Ashley had both the motive and opportunity, while the defense insists on her innocence, portraying her as a victim of prolonged abuse. The jury's decision will ultimately hinge on these complex and contentious details. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 Juli 202458min
Ballerina Murder Trial — FL v. Ashley Benefield — Pretrial Hearing PART 2
Welcome to a special episode of "The Trial of Ashley Benefield," where today, we delve into the gripping case that has captured the nation's attention. Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina, stands accused of second-degree murder in the death of her husband, Douglas Benefield. As we set the stage for this high-stakes courtroom drama, let's summarize the events that have led us here. In September 2020, Ashley Benefield fled to a neighbor's house in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, claiming she had just shot her husband in self-defense after enduring months of alleged abuse. Douglas Benefield, found with multiple gunshot wounds to his leg, arm, and chest, succumbed to his injuries. Ashley's story of self-defense stands at the heart of this case. The couple's tumultuous relationship began in 2016 when Ashley, then a 24-year-old model and ballerina, met Douglas, a 54-year-old Navy veteran and technology consultant, at a Republican fundraiser in Palm Beach. They married just two weeks later. Douglas, recently widowed, supported Ashley's dream to start a ballet company, leading to the creation of the short-lived American National Ballet in Charleston, South Carolina. Their relationship deteriorated rapidly after the birth of their child in March 2018. A bitter custody battle ensued, marked by Ashley's accusations of domestic violence and attempts to keep Douglas away from their baby. However, a judge found Ashley's allegations to lack credibility. On September 27, 2020, a frantic 911 call was made by a neighbor, reporting Ashley's claim that she shot Douglas in self-defense. First responders found Douglas with gunshot wounds suggesting he was not facing Ashley when he was shot, nor in a defensive stance, casting doubt on her self-defense claim. As Ashley Benefield heads to trial, the courtroom will scrutinize forensic evidence, the couple's fraught history, and Ashley's own statements. The prosecution argues that Ashley had both the motive and opportunity, while the defense insists on her innocence, portraying her as a victim of prolonged abuse. The jury's decision will ultimately hinge on these complex and contentious details. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 Juli 20241h
5: Ballerina Murder Trial — FL v. Ashley Benefield — Pretrial Hearing PART 3
Welcome to a special episode of "The Trial of Ashley Benefield," where today, we delve into the gripping case that has captured the nation's attention. Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina, stands accused of second-degree murder in the death of her husband, Douglas Benefield. As we set the stage for this high-stakes courtroom drama, let's summarize the events that have led us here. In September 2020, Ashley Benefield fled to a neighbor's house in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, claiming she had just shot her husband in self-defense after enduring months of alleged abuse. Douglas Benefield, found with multiple gunshot wounds to his leg, arm, and chest, succumbed to his injuries. Ashley's story of self-defense stands at the heart of this case. The couple's tumultuous relationship began in 2016 when Ashley, then a 24-year-old model and ballerina, met Douglas, a 54-year-old Navy veteran and technology consultant, at a Republican fundraiser in Palm Beach. They married just two weeks later. Douglas, recently widowed, supported Ashley's dream to start a ballet company, leading to the creation of the short-lived American National Ballet in Charleston, South Carolina. Their relationship deteriorated rapidly after the birth of their child in March 2018. A bitter custody battle ensued, marked by Ashley's accusations of domestic violence and attempts to keep Douglas away from their baby. However, a judge found Ashley's allegations to lack credibility. On September 27, 2020, a frantic 911 call was made by a neighbor, reporting Ashley's claim that she shot Douglas in self-defense. First responders found Douglas with gunshot wounds suggesting he was not facing Ashley when he was shot, nor in a defensive stance, casting doubt on her self-defense claim. As Ashley Benefield heads to trial, the courtroom will scrutinize forensic evidence, the couple's fraught history, and Ashley's own statements. The prosecution argues that Ashley had both the motive and opportunity, while the defense insists on her innocence, portraying her as a victim of prolonged abuse. The jury's decision will ultimately hinge on these complex and contentious details. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 Juli 20241h 12min
Ballerina Murder Trial — FL v. Ashley Benefield — Pretrial Hearing PART 4
Welcome to a special episode of "The Trial of Ashley Benefield," where today, we delve into the gripping case that has captured the nation's attention. Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina, stands accused of second-degree murder in the death of her husband, Douglas Benefield. As we set the stage for this high-stakes courtroom drama, let's summarize the events that have led us here. In September 2020, Ashley Benefield fled to a neighbor's house in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, claiming she had just shot her husband in self-defense after enduring months of alleged abuse. Douglas Benefield, found with multiple gunshot wounds to his leg, arm, and chest, succumbed to his injuries. Ashley's story of self-defense stands at the heart of this case. The couple's tumultuous relationship began in 2016 when Ashley, then a 24-year-old model and ballerina, met Douglas, a 54-year-old Navy veteran and technology consultant, at a Republican fundraiser in Palm Beach. They married just two weeks later. Douglas, recently widowed, supported Ashley's dream to start a ballet company, leading to the creation of the short-lived American National Ballet in Charleston, South Carolina. Their relationship deteriorated rapidly after the birth of their child in March 2018. A bitter custody battle ensued, marked by Ashley's accusations of domestic violence and attempts to keep Douglas away from their baby. However, a judge found Ashley's allegations to lack credibility. On September 27, 2020, a frantic 911 call was made by a neighbor, reporting Ashley's claim that she shot Douglas in self-defense. First responders found Douglas with gunshot wounds suggesting he was not facing Ashley when he was shot, nor in a defensive stance, casting doubt on her self-defense claim. As Ashley Benefield heads to trial, the courtroom will scrutinize forensic evidence, the couple's fraught history, and Ashley's own statements. The prosecution argues that Ashley had both the motive and opportunity, while the defense insists on her innocence, portraying her as a victim of prolonged abuse. The jury's decision will ultimately hinge on these complex and contentious details. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
17 Juli 20241h 5min
