DELTONA, FL (AP) -- An elderly Volusia County man accused of fatally shooting his sick wife is out of jail. Robert Benjo was released on his own recognizance after a hearing Wednesday. His doctor, public defender and family testified that the shooting was a 'mercy killing.'
The 82-year-old told authorities he wanted to end his wife's pain from cancer and Alzheimer's disease. The shooting happened at their Deltona home last week. Benjo was ordered to live with his son in Seminole County, undergo a mental evaluation and comply with any treatment suggested. His arraignment is scheduled July 2.
In December 2000, another elderly Deltona man fatally shot his wife in what was termed a "mercy killing." He was placed on probation for 10 years.