Jill Biden's Ex-Husband Pleads Not Guilty to Alleged Murder of Wife

Bill Stevenson was indicted on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Bill Stevenson, the ex-husband of First Lady Jill Biden, pleaded not guilty during his virtual arraignment on a first-degree murder charge related to the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson. Stevenson, 77, appeared via Zoom before a New Castle County Superior Court commissioner in Delaware and his bail conditions remain in place as the case proceeds.

Why it matters

The case has drawn significant public attention due to Stevenson's connection to the First Lady, as well as the serious nature of the alleged crime. It raises questions about domestic violence, the criminal justice system, and the complexities of high-profile relationships.

The details

Stevenson was indicted on Feb. 2 on a first-degree murder charge in connection with Linda's death in December 2025. Police responded to a reported domestic dispute at the couple's home, where Linda was found unresponsive. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced deceased. Stevenson pleaded not guilty and his attorney requested a speedy jury trial.

  • On Dec. 28, 2025, police responded to a reported domestic dispute at the Stevenson residence.
  • On Feb. 2, 2026, Stevenson was indicted on a first-degree murder charge.
  • On Feb. 17, 2026, Stevenson pleaded not guilty during his virtual arraignment.

The players

Bill Stevenson

The 77-year-old ex-husband of First Lady Jill Biden, who has been indicted on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson.

Linda Stevenson

Bill Stevenson's 64-year-old wife, who was found unresponsive at the couple's home in December 2025 and later pronounced deceased.

Jill Biden

The current First Lady of the United States, who was previously married to Bill Stevenson.

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What they’re saying

“Your Honor, we're going to enter a plea of not guilty. We're going to waive the reading of his charges, and we're going to request a speedy jury trial. His bail is already set.”

— Bill Stevenson's Attorney

“Your bail and bail conditions have already been set and shall remain in place. This has been specially assigned to Judge Adams, and so she'll be setting the dates moving forward. Good luck to you, Mr. Stevenson. You'll hear from the court regarding your next date in due course.”

— Commissioner Lynne Parker

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on a date for the speedy jury trial requested by Stevenson's attorney.

The takeaway

This high-profile case involving the ex-husband of the First Lady highlights the complexities of domestic violence cases and the need for a thorough investigation and fair judicial process, regardless of one's connections or status.