Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for first-degree manslaughter in the 2020 fatal shooting of her estranged husband, Doug Benefield. The sentencing, which includes 10 years of probation, follows her conviction after a six-day trial this summer in Florida. Prosecutors had charged Benefield with second-degree murder, but the jury found her guilty of the lesser charge.

The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
Doug (left) and Ashley Benefield (right).

Benefield, 33, testified that she acted in self-defense during a physical altercation at her home, alleging her husband was abusive and volatile. However, prosecutors described the abuse claims as “fictitious” and argued that the evidence did not support her account. They portrayed the shooting as part of a contentious battle she sought to win “at all costs.”

Her lawyers are seeking a new trial, citing alleged juror misconduct, including a failure to disclose past custody disputes and potential unauthorized communication during deliberations. Prosecutors dismissed these claims, arguing there was no evidence of compromised deliberations or withheld information. Benefield’s case remains a point of legal contention as her sentence takes effect.