Former American Idol contestant found guilty of killing wife during affair

A jury has reached a verdict in the murder trial of former American Idol contestant Caleb Flynn, who is accused of killing his wife Ashley. Flynn, 40, allegedly shot his 37-year-old wife in the back of the head while she was asleep in their Tipp City, Ohio home on February 16. Prosecutors claim Flynn then staged the scene to make it look like a break-in and called 911, claiming an intruder was responsible.

Flynn has pleaded not guilty to the charges of aggravated murder, murder, felonious assault, and tampering with evidence. The gun used in the shooting has not been recovered.

Testifying over two days, ex-intern and alleged affair partner Alleigha Botner revealed the couple had a roughly 18-month sexual relationship. She detailed the tens of thousands of text messages they exchanged, including Flynn's numerous messages expressing a desire for Ashley's death. Botner testified that she cut off contact with Flynn on February 14, two days before the murder, and gave him a final deadline to separate from Ashley.

In his final messages to Botner before the killing, Flynn wrote, "It's happening," "Actions will come tomorrow," "I choose you," and "About to be free." He also stated that February 16 would be a day he never forgets.

Botner's defense lawyers argue that the loss of her phone and laptop suggests her involvement in the murder. However, Ring video footage showed her at home during the time of the murder. Flynn's defense attorneys conceded that he had an affair with Botner but argued that a man can fail as a husband without being a murderer. Prosecutors picked apart each of Flynn's defenses, alleging that he was too greedy to be a victim of a lawful exit. The jury is expected to announce their verdict shortly.