The Crimes of Patricia Vann Taylor Allanson
Early Life and Ambitions
Born on August 22, 1937, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Patricia Vann Taylor Allanson harbored dreams of embodying the quintessential Southern belle, reminiscent of Scarlett O'Hara from "Gone with the Wind." Her pursuit of this ideal led her down a path marked by manipulation, deceit, and murder.
The Allanson Family Murders
In 1974, Patricia married Tom Allanson, a man six years her junior, in a lavish ceremony where they dressed as Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara. Their union was marred by familial discord, particularly with Tom's parents, Walter and Carolyn Allanson, who disapproved of Patricia. On July 3, 1974, this tension culminated tragically when Walter and Carolyn were found shot to death in their home. Tom was arrested and convicted for their murders, receiving a life sentence. While Patricia was not directly implicated, suspicions arose regarding her influence over Tom and her possible role in orchestrating the crime.
Attempted Poisoning of Tom's Grandparents
Following Tom's incarceration, Patricia turned her attention to his grandparents, Nona and "Paw" Allanson. She endeared herself to them, eventually being named the primary beneficiary in their will. However, her intentions were far from benevolent. Patricia began administering arsenic to the elderly couple, causing them to fall gravely ill. Her malevolent actions were uncovered, leading to her arrest on August 6, 1976, for the attempted murders of Nona and "Paw" Allanson. In May 1977, she was found guilty and sentenced to two consecutive 10-year prison terms.
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