The ex-husband of former first lady Jill Biden, William Stevenson, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Linda Stevenson. The indictment, issued by a grand jury in New Castle County, Delaware, comes after the 64-year-old was found unresponsive at their home late last year.
This case draws considerable attention due to Jill Biden’s prominence as a public figure and the historical context surrounding her previous marriage. It raises critical questions about domestic violence and accountability within relationships, particularly those that have long lasted or are tied to well-known figures.
Key Developments
- William Stevenson, 77, was arrested at his home in Oak Hill on Monday afternoon, following the grand jury’s indictment.
- The incident prompting the murder charge involved a reported domestic dispute on December 28, when police found Linda Stevenson unresponsive.
- Linda Stevenson was pronounced dead at the scene, and her body has been sent for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
- Stevenson is currently held at the Howard Young Correction Institution in Wilmington, unable to post a $500,000 cash bail.
Full Report
Incident Details
Emergency services responded to an urgent domestic dispute at the Stevenson residence late on December 28. Upon arrival, officers found Linda Stevenson unresponsive in the living room, where she was later declared dead. This incident has led to a thorough investigation, with her body undergoing examination to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
Charges and Custody
On Monday, authorities arrested William Stevenson without incident at their Oak Hill home. Following his arraignment, he was placed in custody at the Howard Young Correction Institution. Due to financial constraints, he remains unable to meet the bail requirement set for his release.
Response from Jill Biden and Joe Biden
The offices of Jill Biden and her husband, former President Joe Biden, have opted not to comment on the matter, further underscoring the sensitivity of the situation involving a family member’s tragic circumstances amid public scrutiny.
Context & Previous Events
Jill Biden was married to William Stevenson in February 1970, shortly after her 18th birthday. The couple divorced in 1975, shortly before she began her relationship with Joe Biden, who was then a Democratic senator from Delaware. The divorce proceedings were finalized in May of the same year, just months after she met her future husband.
