Preparedness
Ex-Ballerina’s Guilty Verdict Sends Tremors Through Gun-Owner Community
Ashley Benefield, a former ballerina of 33 years, was found guilty in what has been dubbed the “Black Swan” murder trial. Benefield was convicted for the killing of her 58-year-old estranged husband, Doug Benefield, who she shot at her mother’s home in Bradenton, Florida, in 2020.
The couple had a whirlwind romance, meeting at a Republican Party fundraiser in 2016. At that time, Ashley was a young 24-year-old ballerina, and Doug was a 54-year-old Navy veteran and technology consultant. They tied the knot only 13 days after their first encounter.
Though charged with second-degree murder, a Manatee County jury in a Florida courtroom found Benefield guilty of the lesser crime of manslaughter. This crime carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years in Florida. After the guilty verdict was announced, the presiding judge rescinded Benefield’s $100,000 bond and handed her over to the custody of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. Her sentencing date remains unknown.
Benefield’s defense, led by attorney Neil Taylor, argued that the fatal shooting was in self-defense. Taylor painted a picture of Doug as an abusive husband, stating that his client had filed numerous complaints about his abusive behavior with no subsequent action taken by authorities.
“Thirty years older than Ashley, he was obsessed with her, and he successfully portrayed himself as he was not in an effort to win her hand in marriage,” Taylor told the courtroom. He further alleged that Doug was a controlling, manipulative, and cunning man who regularly carried a loaded firearm.
“The only thing that is going to have been established here beyond a reasonable doubt is that Douglas Benefield was a violent abuser, Ashley Benefield’s efforts to placate him [were] absolutely consistent with what abused women do, especially when a child is involved, and that Ashley’s result and resource to deadly force was justified under the circumstances,” Taylor argued.
Their relationship seemed idyllic in the early days, according to Doug’s 23-year-old daughter from a previous marriage, Eva Benefield. “They were just with each other all the time. It was very lovey-dovey. They were very touchy-feely PDAs. Any event with school or extracurricular that I was in, they were together. They never left each other’s side,” Eva said.
A year after their wedding, Ashley was pregnant, and the couple had embarked on Ashley’s dream endeavor — the establishment of a ballet company. However, the relationship started to unravel and led to a court order that restricted the couple from contacting each other.
In the throes of this turmoil, Ashley moved from their South Carolina residence to her mother’s home in Florida while pregnant. She sought a domestic violence injunction against Doug, which would prevent him from seeing their child.
The state prosecutor, Assistant State Attorney Suzanne O’Donnell, portrayed the case as a custody battle that Ashley was determined to win at all costs. “The cost was the life of Doug Benefield, and that is murder,” she argued.
The fatal incident occurred on September 27, 2020, when Doug was allegedly assisting Ashley with moving. An argument ensued, leading Ashley to retrieve a handgun. She claimed that Doug slapped her, blocked her from leaving, and lunged at her, prompting her to shoot him.
Right after the incident, Benefield ran to her neighbor, John Sant’s house, and told him that Doug had attacked her. Sant’s 911 call was played during the trial, capturing Sant’s attempts to calm Ashley down.
However, the prosecutor, O’Donnell, argued that there was no evidence to support Ashley’s claim of physical assault. In contradiction to Ashley’s claim that Doug lunged at her, O’Donnell pointed out that the fatal bullet entered Doug’s body from the side, suggesting he wasn’t facing Ashley when she started shooting.
Watch a local news report about the incident below:
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Traveling internationally can be rewarding, but it also carries risks that vary widely by destination and situation. The U.S. government offers specific safety guidelines to help American travelers prepare, stay informed, and protect themselves throughout their trip.
Here are key practices U.S. citizens should follow to stay safe overseas:
1. Check Travel Advisories Before You Go
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for every country. These advisories use a four-level system to show risk:
- Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
- Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- Level 3: Reconsider travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Before booking or departing, always review the current advisory for your destination. Higher levels indicate serious risks like crime, civil unrest, terrorism, health emergencies, or limited emergency services.
2. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before departure, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service connects you to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and keeps you informed with real-time updates about safety, weather, civil unrest, or health issues in your destination. It also makes it easier for authorities to contact you or your emergency contacts if needed.
3. Know Local Laws and Customs
U.S. citizens abroad must obey the laws of the country they are visiting. Local legal systems and penalties can differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers should research local laws, dress codes, cultural norms, and any restricted activities before departure to avoid fines, detention, or legal complications.
4. Prepare Important Documents and Contacts
Carry your passport with you at all times and make digital copies of important documents like your passport page, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Leave copies with someone at home and store them securely online. Keep local embassy contact information readily available in case you need assistance while abroad.
5. Have a Personal Emergency Plan
Emergencies can range from civil unrest and natural disasters to health crises and lost travel documents. Plan ahead:
- Know where the U.S. embassy or consulate is in your destination
- Have a communication plan with family or friends back home
- Know your travel insurance coverage and how to access medical care while abroad
- Understand evacuation routes and local emergency services
During a crisis, the U.S. government may not be able to evacuate you immediately. You should be ready to use commercial travel options to leave if it is safe to do so.
6. Stay Alert and Use Common Sense
Travel safety often comes down to ordinary precautions:
- Avoid risky areas and follow local authority instructions
- Keep a low profile and avoid displaying expensive items
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places
These practices reduce the chance of being targeted for theft or other crimes.
Why This Matters Today
Global travel risks can change quickly due to political tensions, health outbreaks, or civil unrest. For example, the U.S. government has issued worldwide travel caution alerts during periods of heightened international tension, underscoring the importance of staying updated with current risks.
Summary of Key Safety Steps
- Check official travel advisories for your destination
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Know local laws and customs
- Carry and secure important travel documents
- Prepare a personal emergency plan
- Stay alert and cautious throughout your trip
Traveling across the United States is one of the great freedoms Americans enjoy. Whether you’re driving state to state, flying cross-country, or taking a long road trip, staying safe and fully within the law doesn’t require anything complicated. It just takes preparation, awareness, and a few essentials that every traveler should have in place before they go.
Here are five things you need to travel across America confidently, safely, and legally.
1. Valid Government-Issued Identification
This is non-negotiable.
A valid ID proves who you are and allows you to travel without unnecessary delays or problems.
For most people, this means:
- A valid driver’s license or REAL ID
- A state-issued ID card if you don’t drive
- A valid U.S. passport (especially useful for air travel)
If you’re flying, your ID must meet TSA requirements. If you’re driving, your license must be current and not suspended. Keep your ID easily accessible, but secure.
2. Proof of Legal Residency or Citizenship (If Applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen, carrying proof such as a passport or passport card adds an extra layer of security during long trips, especially near border states or when flying.
If you are a legal resident or visa holder, you should always carry:
- Your valid visa or green card
- Any required travel documents associated with your status
Having proper documentation protects you from misunderstandings and unnecessary stress.
3. Proper Vehicle Documents (If Driving)
If you’re traveling by car, make sure your paperwork is up to date.
This includes:
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- A valid driver’s license
Law enforcement checks are routine and usually brief when paperwork is in order. Keeping documents organized shows responsibility and helps everything go smoothly.
4. A Safe and Legal Travel Plan
You don’t need a strict itinerary, but you should know where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
A smart travel plan includes:
- Knowing your route and major stops
- Booking legal accommodations (hotels, campgrounds, or rentals)
- Understanding basic state laws (speed limits, phone use, toll roads)
Each state has its own rules, and being aware of them helps you avoid fines or problems.
5. Emergency Contacts and Communication
Safety isn’t just about laws — it’s about preparedness.
Carry a charged phone, a car charger or power bank, and a written list of emergency contacts in case technology fails.
It’s also wise to:
- Share your travel plans with someone you trust
- Check weather conditions regularly
- Keep emergency numbers saved and written down
Prepared travelers are calm travelers.
Final Thought
Traveling across America legally and safely doesn’t require fear or special permissions. It requires valid identification, proper documents, respect for local laws, and basic preparedness.
When you travel with everything in order, you’re free to enjoy the journey — not worry about it.
Emergencies don’t always come with a warning. Power outages, break-ins, severe weather, or unexpected disturbances can leave you needing to protect yourself long enough to get to safety. While the goal is never to engage or escalate, having everyday household items you can rely on for protection can give you valuable time, confidence, and control.
The following items are commonly found in most homes and can be used responsibly to create distance, draw attention, or help you escape when needed.
- A Heavy-Duty Flashlight
A solid flashlight is one of the most useful protective tools in an emergency.
A bright beam can temporarily disorient someone in a dark room, allowing you to move away or secure a door. It also helps you navigate safely during power outages, avoid hazards, and signal for help.
Keep one near your bed and another in a main living area. Choose LED models with long battery life.
- A Fire Extinguisher
Most people think of fire extinguishers only for fires, but they also offer protection in other emergencies.
A quick spray creates a cloud that can block vision and breathing for a moment, giving you a chance to escape. The extinguisher itself is also sturdy enough to hold defensively while you move away from danger.
Every home should have at least one accessible extinguisher.
- A Sturdy Walking Cane or Umbrella
A cane or strong umbrella provides reach and distance without requiring physical strength.
These items can be used to keep space between you and a threat, block movement, or help you maneuver safely toward an exit. Many people already keep one near a door or bedroom, making it easy to grab quickly.
- A Loud Personal Alarm or Whistle
Sound is a powerful protective tool.
A personal alarm or whistle can startle an intruder, alert neighbors, and draw immediate attention to your situation. It’s especially helpful if shouting isn’t an option or if you live in close quarters like an apartment or townhome.
These devices are inexpensive, simple to use, and effective.
- A Doorstop or Heavy Furniture
Creating a barrier can be more effective than any object in your hands.
A basic rubber doorstop can slow or prevent a door from opening, buying you time to call for help or escape. Heavy furniture, when used carefully, can block entry points and turn a room into a temporary safe space.
Final Reminder
Protection during emergencies is about time and distance, not confrontation.
Use everyday items only as a last resort and only to help you reach safety or get help.
Preparation doesn’t mean fear — it means being ready to act calmly when it matters most.
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Carl
August 3, 2024 at 12:22 pm
Maybe, just maybe, he turned at the last second realizing she was going to shoot. President Trump is a perfect example of how that works. If he hadnt turned he would be dead. Unfortunately or fortunately, it didnt work for this guy🤔
David Veselenak
August 3, 2024 at 1:28 pm
Bitch got away with murder, that simple! There is now a plethora of ” domestic violence” KILLINGS. aka MURDERS that are being invoked! It’s easy to portray this when the so-called perpetrator is not able to repute the charges which now are made-up fairy tales! I don’t see someone that was kind enough to assist in her/it’s moving all of a sudden turning into an ogre! This bitch got away with murder, as have several others that hadn’t reported such behavior by their spouse! WTFU, TRANSFORMED and TRANSGENDERED AMERIKA, you’ve been had, hope your glad as your demise neighs!
Don
August 3, 2024 at 3:18 pm
She should have just left to parts unknown. Now she is going to jail and he is dead. We will never know the real story.
Holly
August 3, 2024 at 7:28 pm
I side with the woman, she was pregnant & left to stay at her mothers, she tried to get away from him. Abusers can be very controlling & manipulating, I say this from past experiences. They try to keep you from your friends & family. They tear you down mentally & emotionally & physically. Horrible that she has to spend time in prison & hopefully her mother can keep the baby for her & he does not get custody!
Don
August 4, 2024 at 10:20 am
Knowing that part of the country as I do I’d tend to believe her story. Abuse is common.
Bill Clay
August 23, 2024 at 10:00 pm
Based on the critical evidence the 12 jurors agreed she made a bad choice by choosing manslaughter. She trusted him to help move.
RobertC
September 17, 2024 at 7:44 pm
Holly, It’s apparent from your comment that you either didn’t read the article or didn’t comprehend what you read. She wasn’t “left” to stay with her mother, she chose to move there and he was actually helping her move. You’re hoping that “her mother can keep the baby for her and he does not get custody” – that would be rather difficult since HE’S DEAD. Your typical knee-jerk reaction of believing all women regardless of circumstances has no place in a fair and just society. Is it possible that he was abusive and she acted in self defense? Absolutely. Is it also possible that she was willing to resort to whatever means necessary – including murder – to avoid sharing custody of the child with him? Again, absolutely. Since none of us were present at the trial and have no knowledge whatsoever of the evidence presented, there is no way we can make an informed decision on the appropriateness of the sentence. If there’s one thing that I’ve learned from my nearly seven decades on this planet, it’s that there’s no shortage of evil in people, and that men and women are equally prone to it. To believe otherwise is to ignore reality.
David
November 4, 2024 at 2:26 pm
If the report is accurate about the circumstances leading up to the shooting, I support what she did to protect herself and her child. My question also is why would you have the person your trying ti get sway from help you move?
William J Philllips
March 13, 2025 at 12:52 pm
It is entirely possible that he was invited to help her move simply so she could end his life. Very seldom do people see evil in women, but always in men. I have seen evil in women who have planned to end a life and claim self defense and i believe as I think the jury did that if he were so bad why did she have him help her move. A set up to murder, but the jury was duped by her lawyer