Former Titans Scout Blaise Taylor Sentenced to Life for Cocaine Poisoning of Pregnant Girlfriend

<p>Former Tennessee Titans scout Blaise Taylor, who worked in the organization's scouting department from 2019 to 2023, has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms for the cocaine poisoning of his pregnant girlfriend, Jade Benning, and their unborn daughter. A Davidson County judge imposed the sentences after a jury found Taylor guilty of second-degree murder in Benning's death, first-degree murder for the unborn baby, and two counts of felony murder.</p><p>On February 25, 2023, Taylor was at Benning’s apartment in Nashville when he allegedly added a fatal dose of cocaine to her pink lemonade. After she consumed the drink, Taylor called 911, claiming she was experiencing an allergic reaction. Both Benning and the baby died as a result of the incident.</p><p>The unborn baby girl died two days later, on February 27. Benning remained on life support until March 6, 2023, which was her 25th birthday, before she passed away. Toxicology reports indicated the presence of cocaine in her system, leading to a homicide investigation.</p><p>During the 10-day trial in Nashville, prosecutors dismantled Taylor's alibi and presented a detailed timeline of events. The jury reached a verdict in under two hours. Prosecutors noted that Taylor did not express any remorse for his actions during the trial. The judge ordered the life sentences to run consecutively. Taylor's legal team has indicated plans to appeal the verdict.</p>