A tragic case unfolded in Suitland, Maryland, where prosecutors alleged that a woman was fatally shot by her boyfriend upon discovering her transgender identity.
In July of 2021, 20-year-old Taya Ashton was found deceased, having suffered gunshot wounds inside her apartment. Her boyfriend, 29-year-old DeAllen Price, was arrested and subsequently charged with her murder.
The legal proceedings proved challenging, given the absence of eyewitnesses and the reliance on largely circumstantial evidence, according to reports by WUSA.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Ashton and Price shared an intimate relationship. Assistant State Attorney Sherrie Waldrup, as reported by WUSA, disclosed that Price had shot Ashton following a heated argument.
“That evening was when he learned that Taya was not born a female, and that in response to that, he reacted and shot her,” Waldrup stated, describing the chilling revelation.
Price pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence. He was subsequently sentenced to 60 years in prison, with all but 48 years suspended, according to WUSA. Additionally, if Price is released after serving 48 years, he will be subject to an additional 12 years of probation.