In a shocking turn of events, a Colorado woman, Ashley White, was recently convicted of murder after orchestrating a heinous crime with a stranger she met on a bus. The victim, Cody DeLisa, 28, tragically lost his life in August 2020 due to this senseless act. White, 29, was found guilty of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit second-degree murder, and robbery, as revealed by the 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
The relationship between White and DeLisa was described as “volatile and strained,” with mounting tension stemming from DeLisa’s constant criticism towards White regarding her struggles to secure a full-time job. This ongoing conflict between the couple eventually reached a boiling point, leading to the fateful events that unfolded.
Turbulent Relationship and Deadly Resentment
According to prosecutors, White harbored deep resentment towards DeLisa due to his disparaging remarks about her employment status. In a disturbing revelation, White even expressed regret over meeting DeLisa in her diary, shedding light on the intensity of her emotions. The situation escalated further when White’s mental state came under scrutiny after she attempted to harm DeLisa’s cat, raising concerns about her well-being.
The breaking point came on August 13, 2020, when White, following a job interview in Denver, engaged in a conversation with DeLisa via text while on her way home on a bus. DeLisa’s skepticism regarding White’s job prospects triggered an emotional response from her, paving the way for a chance encounter that would change their lives forever.
During the bus ride, White struck up a conversation with a stranger who identified himself as “Scott.” What started as a casual exchange took a dark turn when Scott, upon learning about White’s relationship with DeLisa, suggested taking drastic action. The sinister plan began to take shape as White and Scott disembarked the bus and spent time together before heading to White’s residence.
Tragic Consequences and Elusive Justice
Upon reaching the house, Scott introduced himself to DeLisa as White’s brother from Texas. However, the facade quickly crumbled as DeLisa was fatally shot twice in the head, and his wallet was stolen. The discovery of DeLisa’s lifeless body during a welfare check the following day sent shockwaves through the community, unraveling the sinister plot that White and Scott had orchestrated.
In the aftermath of the crime, White and Scott parted ways, never to cross paths again. White was eventually apprehended and charged in connection with DeLisa’s murder, marking the beginning of a long and arduous legal battle that would seek justice for the victim and closure for his loved ones.
Three years later, a pivotal development emerged when a woman came forward, suggesting that her boyfriend, Michael Stratton, may have been the elusive “Scott” in this tragic saga. While Stratton was in custody for a separate murder in Pueblo that occurred post-DeLisa’s death, the chilling similarities between his confession and White’s account of the crime raised alarming questions.
Despite these revelations, Stratton was deemed incompetent to stand trial in the Pueblo case and has yet to face charges in connection with DeLisa’s murder. As the legal proceedings continue to unfold, District Attorney Brian Mason emphasized the gravity of the situation, holding White accountable for her actions that led to the loss of a precious life.
As the case heads towards its conclusion, with White scheduled for sentencing on April 4, the community grapples with the aftermath of a tragedy that serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that arise from unchecked resentment and misguided decisions.
The senseless murder of Cody DeLisa stands as a somber testament to the fragility of life and the profound impact of choices made in moments of heated emotion. As the legal system navigates the complexities of this harrowing case, the echoes of this tragedy serve as a cautionary tale, urging us all to exercise empathy, understanding, and restraint in the face of adversity.
