Jill Biden's ex-husband charged with murder of current wife

William Stevenson, 77, arrested and held on $500,000 cash bail after grand jury indictment

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The ex-husband of former first lady Jill Biden was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson, 64, on December 28. William Stevenson, 77, was unable to post the $500,000 cash bail and is being held in custody. Police have not provided details on how Linda Stevenson died.

Why it matters

This case involves the former spouse of a high-profile political figure and raises questions about domestic violence, the criminal justice system's handling of repeat offenders, and the broader issue of intimate partner homicides.

The details

William Stevenson was married to Jill Biden from 1970 until their divorce in 1975. He later married Linda Stevenson, 64, who was found dead on December 28. Police arrested Stevenson on Monday after a grand jury indictment charged him with first-degree murder. Stevenson is being held in custody after he was unable to post the $500,000 cash bail.

  • William Stevenson and Jill Biden were married from 1970 until their divorce in 1975.
  • Linda Stevenson was found dead on December 28, 2025.
  • William Stevenson was arrested on Monday, February 3, 2026.

The players

William Stevenson

The 77-year-old ex-husband of former first lady Jill Biden, who has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of his current wife, Linda Stevenson.

Jill Biden

The former first lady of the United States, who was previously married to William Stevenson from 1970 to 1975.

Linda Stevenson

The 64-year-old current wife of William Stevenson, who was found dead on December 28, 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow William Stevenson out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater scrutiny and accountability in domestic violence cases, especially when involving individuals with a history of violence or criminal behavior. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in protecting vulnerable victims and preventing repeat offenses.