Elliot Russell sentenced to life in Ulysses Ivey murder

This story by Jeff McRae was first published in the Bennington Banner on Nov. 10, 2026. BENNINGTON — Elliot Russell, 50, will be spending the rest of his life behind bars for the pre-meditated shooting death of Ulysses Ivey, 39, of Bennington following a sentencing hearing on Monday afternoon. At the hearing, Russell maintained his innocence and members of his family were allowed to play an extended version of the 911 phone call they say included at least one additional voice that they claim was omitted from the call tape submitted as evidence in the trial. At sentencing, Russell’s defense attorney acknowledged that he had had a difference of opinion with Russell and Russell’s family as to the value of the extended call tape. Ultimately, Russell’s sister was allowed to play the tape following a brief discussion with the defense attorney and the attorney’s explanation to the court for the family’s agitation.

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