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Blaise Taylor trial, day 5: Defense focuses on victim’s phone records, alleged drug use
By Diana Rocco at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· June 29, 2026
· 1 min read
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - On day five of the Blaise Taylor murder trial, the defense continued building its case that Jade Benning willingly used drugs before her death, with testimony centered on toxicology reports and evidence pulled from her phone.Taylor, a former Tennessee Titans scout, is ac...
Key takeaway 25, 2023, of cocaine poisoning, according to the medical examiner.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The Blaise Taylor trial has significant implications for the Nashville community, particularly in regards to the intersection of substance abuse and violent crime. As the defense continues to focus on the victim's alleged drug use, it raises questions about the prevalence of drug-related activity in the city and how it may impact the case's outcome. The fact that the defense is highlighting text messages from the victim's phone, which appear to be related to drug transactions, suggests that they are attempting to establish a narrative that the victim was involved in a dangerous and potentially deadly lifestyle. However, the prosecution's assertion that the victim's fentanyl levels were a result of hospital treatment, rather than prior use, complicates this narrative. As the trial continues, Nashville residents will be watching closely to see how the city's justice system navigates these complex issues and ultimately determines the fate of the former Tennessee Titans scout.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 29, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - On day five of the Blaise Taylor murder trial, the defense continued building its case that Jade Benning willingly used drugs before her death, with testimony centered on toxicology reports and evidence pulled from her phone.Taylor, a former Tennessee Titans scout, is ac...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 29, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Diana Rocco at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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