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The peaceful town of Marion, Illinois, was shaken to its core in December 2020 when 11-year-old Jade Beasley was found brutally stabbed. Her tragic death left the community stunned and desperate for answers. What happened to this cheerful young girl, and who was responsible? Let’s dive into the chilling details of this heartbreaking case.
Investigators theorized that Julia (Jade's stepmother) was involved in Jade’s murder. They believed she discarded a bag containing the murder weapon and other evidence, though it was never recovered.
Julia’s lawyers argued there was no direct evidence tying her to the crime. They alleged systemic biases influenced the investigation and pointed to Julia’s positive relationship with Jade as proof of her innocence.
The investigation of Jade Beasley's murder
Born on August 3, 2009, Jade Marie Beasley was a bundle of energy and joy. She was the kind of child who could light up any room with her laughter. From painting and video games to outdoor adventures, Jade embraced life with a sense of wonder.
Despite her parents’ divorce, Jade Beasley adapted beautifully to her changing family dynamics. She split her time between her mother, Jessica Bradley, and her father, Gregory Beasley, embracing both households with love. When her father remarried Julia Bevely, Jade Beasley welcomed her stepmother and stepbrother, Jayden, with open arms, making their blended family feel whole.
December 5, 2020, started like any other weekend. Julia, Jade’s stepmother, was working from home before heading out to run errands. Jade’s father was at work, and her siblings were elsewhere, leaving Jade and Julia alone at home.
Julia returned from her errand to a horrifying sight, Jade Beasley was lying lifeless in the bathtub, covered in blood from multiple stab wounds. Overcome with shock, Julia called the police, but it was too late to save Jade.
Julia claimed she saw a masked man dressed in black fleeing the house. Her account raised suspicions, but without solid proof, the investigation remained open-ended at first.
Authorities soon uncovered inconsistencies in Julia’s version of events. Surveillance footage showed she went further than she claimed during her errand, and forensic evidence placed her footprints at the crime scene. These findings cast doubt on her innocence.
The trial centered on conflicting narratives. The prosecution presented evidence of Julia’s suspicious behavior, while the defense argued the lack of physical evidence linking her to the murder.
In February 2023, the jury found Julia guilty of three counts of murder. She was sentenced to 55 years in prison, with her earliest parole date set for 2075.
The case divided opinions in the community. While some felt justice was served, others believed the investigation was flawed and Julia was wrongfully convicted.
Julia’s legal team continues to fight for her release. Although a resentencing appeal was denied in December 2023, they remain committed to challenging her conviction.
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Jade Beasley’s death left an irreplaceable void in her family’s life. While her killer is behind bars, many questions about the case linger. For Jade’s loved ones, the search for peace and closure continues.
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