Jaclyn Edison’s Life: From Love to Murder-for-Hire

News: Jaclyn Edison’s life spiraled into darkness when she became entangled in a murder-for-hire scheme masterminded by her husband, Nicolas Shaughnessy. The target of this disturbing plot was none other than his own parents. The heinous crime resulted in a cascade of legal repercussions for Jaclyn, culminating in a 10-year probation term and several imposed restrictions.

The Arrest and Cooperation

During May 2018, Jaclyn Edison and Nicolas Shaughnessy were apprehended in relation to the murder-for-hire conspiracy. Jaclyn found herself incarcerated at Travis County Jail with a set bail of $1,000,000. Opting to collaborate with law enforcement, she divulged Nicolas’s intention to harm his parents. Consequently, on June 20, 2023, Jaclyn pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy.

The Sentencing and Restrictions

Jaclyn received a court sentence of 120 days in jail, followed by a 10-year probationary period. As part of her sentencing, she is mandated to spend two days annually at Travis County Jail on the anniversary of her husband’s father, Ted’s, death. To ensure adherence to the terms, Jaclyn had to relinquish her passport and participate in anger management classes. Additionally, she is under strict prohibition from contacting Ted’s family.

A Life Before the Dark Turn

Before becoming entangled in this nefarious plot, Jaclyn Edison led a relatively ordinary life. Originally hailing from New Jersey, she later relocated to Austin, Texas, where she successfully completed her education at Stephen F. Austin High School. Subsequently, she pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University in College Station.

The Abusive Household and Marriage

Regrettably, Jaclyn’s earlier life was overshadowed by residing in an abusive household prior to tying the knot with Nicolas Shaughnessy, her high school sweetheart, in 2017. The couple discreetly wed and resided with Nicolas’s family in College Station. It was during this period that they became embroiled in the murder-for-hire plot aimed at Nicolas’s father, Ted Shaughnessy.

Living with the Consequences

Following Ted’s heartbreaking demise, Jaclyn and Nicolas relocated to live with Corey Shaughnessy, Ted’s widow. Corey, understandably devastated by the actions of her son and daughter-in-law, expressed feelings of betrayal in her statement. Subsequent investigations uncovered evidence of communication between Jaclyn and Nicolas concerning payments for the plot. Jaclyn was purportedly implicated in the planning and withdrawal of funds leading up to the tragic event.

Restrictions and Current Situation

In order to mitigate any potential threats or attempts to contact the victims’ family, Jaclyn is subject to several restrictions. Alongside surrendering her passport and attending anger management classes, she is mandated to reside in Richardson, Texas. As of her last known update in May 2023, Jaclyn Edison has successfully completed her degree and is employed in Richardson, Texas.

Nicolas Shaughnessy’s Punishment

Conversely, Nicolas Shaughnessy, the architect of the murder-for-hire plot, faced a considerably more severe penalty. Adopted from Russia during his youth, Nicolas pursued studies at Texas A&M University, where he crossed paths with Jaclyn. Financial difficulties seem to have driven the motive for the crime, with Nicolas aiming to secure his parents’ $2 million insurance payout. He was found guilty of solicitation to commit capital murder and was handed a 35-year prison sentence, devoid of parole eligibility for the initial 20 years. Presently, Nicolas is serving his sentence at the Clemens Unit in Brazoria, Texas.

The National Attention and Conclusion

The intricate murder-for-hire scheme played out in Austin, Texas, drawing widespread national attention. The incident garnered coverage in a Dateline NBC episode titled “Ghosts Can’t Talk.” The startling nature of the crime and the subsequent repercussions faced by Jaclyn Edison underscore the critical importance of adhering to legal guidelines and the profound impact that one’s choices can exert on their life.

FAQs

Q: How did Jaclyn Edison end up entangled in the murder-for-hire plot?

A: Jaclyn’s involvement in the scheme, orchestrated by her husband Nicolas Shaughnessy, targeting his parents, stemmed from financial strain and a motive to secure the insurance payout.

Q: What penalty did Nicolas Shaughnessy face?

A: Nicolas was found guilty of solicitation to commit capital murder, resulting in a 35-year prison sentence with no eligibility for parole for the initial 20 years.

Q: Where is Nicolas Shaughnessy incarcerated?

A: Nicolas is serving his sentence at the Clemens Unit in Brazoria, Texas.