Dallas Influencer’s Shocking Sentence: Murder Plot Revealed Against Critics

Judge holding gavel in a courtroom setting.

Dallas influencer Ashley Grayson received a 10-year federal prison sentence for concocting a murder-for-hire plot against her online critics.

At a Glance

  • Ashley Grayson sentenced to 10 years for a murder-for-hire scheme against online critics.
  • Plot involved a $10,000 payment offer to a Memphis couple to execute the plan.
  • The FBI led an investigation, preventing any physical harm, yet emotional damage remains.
  • Grayson boasted an online persona as a philanthropist and successful business coach.

Influencer’s Plot Unveiled

Ashley Grayson, a well-known Dallas influencer and business coach, faced a federal court for her involvement in a murder-for-hire plot against a critic from Southaven, Mississippi. Grayson allegedly hired a couple from Memphis with a $10,000 offer to carry out the crime. The chilling plan came to light after the couple staged an attempt, sending Grayson a fake photo as proof and receiving a partial payment.

The criminal scheme stemmed from Grayson’s belief that the critic was behind fake profiles damaging her reputation online. In September 2022, Grayson met the couple, promising a lucrative $20,000 per victim, which included other targets, for executing the plan. The solicitation was recorded, sealing her fate in court where she was found guilty.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

In October, U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Grayson to 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Despite no physical harm coming to the intended victim or others, the emotional scars deeply impacted those involved. The trial highlighted the harsh reality of digital disputes escalating into real-world threats. As of March 2024, Grayson faced conviction, while her husband, Joshua, was acquitted of related charges.

“This was a twenty-first century crime where online feuds and senseless rivalries bled into the real world.” – Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren

Federal agents praised the investigation, which not only thwarted violence but also involved the FBI and ATF. The case, handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neal Oldham and Bryce Phillips, served as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in the digital age.

Impact on Society and Legal Implications

Grayson, celebrated on social media as a best-selling author and guide to business success, under this shadow of crime, damaged her reputational standing. Internet fame once brought opportunities but led to malicious intent crossing territorial boundaries. Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren emphasized the emotional impact is undeniable, although the plot’s fruition was averted. This case starkly illustrates the crossover of online interactions into real-life legal ramifications.

“Fortunately, no one was physically hurt in this case, but the victim and her family still felt a severe and emotional impact as the result of the defendant’s actions” – Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren

The convicted influencer will face significant time in federal custody, a stern lesson on the consequences of allowing digital grievances to spiral into criminal acts.

Sources:

  1. Texas social media influencer sentenced for plot to murder Mississippi woman over criticism on internet
  2. Texas influencer sentenced to 10 years in prison for murder-for-hire plot
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