A Washington woman has been charged with first-degree murder and other serious offenses following a tragic incident at a casino that escalated from an alleged robbery scheme to a homicide investigation. Railen Marie Benzy, 34, faces a staggering $10 million bail after being accused of spiking a man’s drink with a fatal dose of fentanyl.
The case emerged when police were called to the LNA Casino Hotel in Ridgefield on October 5, 2023, after staff discovered the body of a 38-year-old man, identified only as Arslon, in his hotel room. Preliminary investigations revealed that Benzy had entered Arslon’s room the night before, allegedly under the pretense of a consensual arrangement where she would receive his casino winnings in exchange for sex. However, according to the probable cause affidavit, the situation took a dark turn.
Witnesses and surveillance footage indicated that Benzy spent approximately an hour alone with Arslon before leaving the room and returning shortly thereafter with another man. Upon her initial police interview, she denied involvement in his death, claiming he was merely sleeping. However, her subsequent statements raised significant concerns. According to a witness, Benzy allegedly admitted to drugging Arslon, stating he “probably ODed” and “was unconscious” after she put fentanyl in his drink.
Further investigations revealed a troubling pattern. Police obtained text messages from Benzy’s phone, indicating premeditation in her intentions for robbery. In one message, she expressed the need to “find a rich man to rob” and discussed her plans to drug unsuspecting men before stealing from them. This alarming behavior not only points to a potential history of similar offenses but also establishes a motive for the alleged murder.
As the investigation deepened, the medical examiner confirmed that Arslon had fentanyl in his system, which was the only drug detected. Following the arrest of Benzy on Halloween for unrelated charges involving a stolen vehicle, the gravity of her situation intensified. Her bail was set at $10 million, a reflection of the serious nature of her alleged crimes.
Legal experts have weighed in on the case, noting the significant challenges Benzy may face if the case goes to trial. The prosecution is likely to argue that her actions constituted murder under Washington state law, particularly given the circumstances surrounding her alleged intent to rob and the use of a lethal substance. Defense attorneys may struggle to counter the overwhelming evidence, including her own admissions and incriminating text messages.
Benzy is scheduled to appear in court in January, and the outcome of the case may hinge on negotiations for a potential plea deal. Prosecutors could be open to reducing charges depending on the wishes of the victim’s family and the strength of the evidence against her. Given the serious nature of the allegations and the premeditated elements involved, the situation remains dire for Benzy as she awaits her next court appearance.
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illicit drug use and the potential consequences of predatory behavior. As the legal proceedings unfold, attention will remain focused on the courtroom developments and the implications for all those involved.
