Originally convicted in 2009 of the murder and dismemberment of his one-time girlfriend 49-year-old Leslyan Williams, Franklin Elliott Benson, 53, recently requested a new trial for the fourth time, once again citing ineffective legal counsel. His previous three motions for a new trial have been denied, and the process of repeatedly dealing with such motions is a frustrating and costly one for local court officials. District Attorney Layla Zon said there is no cap on how many times a defendant can request a new trial, and a Newton County Clerk of Courts employee said when a motion for a new
Murderer Benson seeks new trial again