Ex-Titans Scout Gets Consecutive Life Sentences

A former Tennessee Titans scout has been sentenced to consecutive life sentences for the cocaine poisoning of his pregnant girlfriend and their unborn child. Blaise Taylor, 30, received the sentences on Wednesday following his conviction on murder-related charges. Prosecutors alleged that on February 25, 2023, Taylor intentionally administered a fatal dose of cocaine to Jade Benning in her Nashville apartment. Benning, who was five months pregnant, was rushed to the hospital but died on March 6, 2023, her 25th birthday. Their unborn daughter, who was to be named Ivy, died two days after the incident, on February 27, 2023. During the 10-day trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Taylor brought the cocaine and put it into Benning's drink, claiming she was suffering an allergic reaction when he called 911. Toxicology reports indicated cocaine in Benning's system, leading to a homicide investigation. A jury deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Taylor in July on charges including second-degree murder for Benning's death, first-degree murder for the unborn child, and two counts of felony murder.