Florida Woman Accused of Murder

(St. Petersburg, Florida) A 24-year-old local woman, Jillian Leah Smith, has been accused of causing the death of her live-in boyfriend, 32-year-old Michael Gene Espy.

Charged with second-degree murder, Smith allegedly plunged a kitchen knife into Espy's chest.

After the stabbing, Smith called 911 seeking medical assistance for the victim, police said. He was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead about 1:37 p.m.

Police said Smith and the victim, who were not married and had been in a relationship for about a year, have had a history of domestic disputes.

Police said there were11 instances in the past year; the most recent occurrence was on Dec. 4.

Smith was booked into custody at the Pinellas County Jail.