A shocking murder case from Alabama is now in court, where a woman is accused of planning the killing of her child’s father in a murder-for-hire plot. The case has drawn attention due to its serious allegations and disturbing details shared during the trial.
Murder Case in Hartselle, Alabama
The incident dates back to July 24, 2020, in Hartselle. Anthony Sheppard, 41, was found dead inside his home after friends requested a welfare check.
When police arrived, they discovered signs of violence:
- The storm door glass was shattered
- The front door was open
- Sheppard had multiple gunshot wounds
The condition of the scene clearly indicated a brutal attack.
Who Is the Accused?
Jaclyn Elaine Skuce, 43, from Madison, is one of five people charged in connection with the case. She is currently on trial for capital murder.
She was arrested in September 2020 and faces serious charges, including:
- Capital murder
- Solicitation of murder
- Involvement in a murder-for-hire plan
Allegations of Murder-for-Hire Plot
Prosecutors claim that Skuce planned the killing and hired a man named Logan Delp to carry out the attack.
According to reports:
- She allegedly agreed to pay $30,000 for the killing
- She is accused of contacting Delp through a fake social media account
- Investigators say the two later met to plan the crime
In a recorded police interview played in court, Skuce reportedly admitted to paying Delp but claimed she did not believe he would actually go through with the murder.
She also made another controversial claim—that she had a personal relationship with Delp as part of the arrangement.
Possible Motive Behind the Crime
The prosecution believes the motive may be linked to an ongoing custody dispute between Skuce and Sheppard over their daughter.
Reports suggest:
- The two were involved in a bitter legal battle
- A custody hearing was scheduled on the same day Sheppard was killed
Skuce also told police that she feared Sheppard and claimed he had threatened her. These claims are now part of the court proceedings.
Other Accused and Developments
In October 2025, Logan Delp was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison.
Other suspects who allegedly helped in the plan are still in jail and waiting for their trials. Authorities believe multiple people played roles in carrying out the crime.
Court Proceedings Underway
The trial of Skuce is ongoing, and prosecutors are presenting evidence to prove her involvement in planning the murder. Her defence team has not publicly commented on the case so far.
The court will examine whether her actions directly led to the killing and whether she should be held responsible under capital murder charges.
