Ex-Titans scout Blaise Taylor gets consecutive life terms for cocaine poisoning of pregnant girlfriend

Former Tennessee Titans scout Blaise Taylor has been sentenced to two consecutive life terms for the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Jade Benning, and their unborn daughter. The Tennessee judge ruled that Taylor would never again enjoy the freedoms of a living person.

Taylor, who worked for the Titans’ scouting department from 2019 to 2023, was charged after a February 2023 incident in Nashville. On February 25, he allegedly added a lethal dose of cocaine to Benning’s pink lemonade at her apartment. After she drank the beverage, Taylor called 911 and falsely told dispatchers that she was experiencing an allergic reaction.

Toxicology reports later contradicted Taylor’s claim, revealing cocaine in Benning’s system. The case was therefore treated as a homicide investigation. Benning was kept on life support until March 6, 2023—her 25th birthday—before she died. The unborn baby girl died two days after the poisoning, on February 27.

The trial, held in Nashville, lasted ten days. Prosecutors presented a detailed timeline and evidence that the murder was premeditated. A jury found Taylor guilty on all counts: second‑degree murder in Benning’s death, first‑degree murder of the unborn child, and two felony‑murder convictions. The jury reached its verdict in under two hours.

In sentencing, the judge imposed two consecutive life terms, ensuring that Taylor would serve them back‑to‑back without the possibility of parole. Taylor’s legal team announced plans to appeal the sentence, but no appellate decision has yet been made.

The case has drawn attention for its tragic nature and for the apparent lack of remorse or acknowledgment of the victims by the defense. It underscores the serious legal consequences that can result from violent acts, even when attempted to be concealed under false pretenses.