Erika Elaine Grace was born in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania. She was an honor student and a standout basketball player at Mary Washington College, graduating cum laude in 2001 with a degree in history. Despite her academic and athletic achievements, Erika struggled with severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. She met Benjamin Sifrit during her senior year, and they married shortly after. The couple settled near Erika's hometown, where they operated a scrapbook store. Erika's family was surprised by her sudden marriage and noted changes in her behavior following her relationship with Benjamin.

On May 25, 2002, Erika and Benjamin Sifrit met Joshua Ford and Martha Crutchley in Ocean City, Maryland. After spending time together at a nightclub, the Sifrits invited the couple to their condominium. Erika accused them of stealing her purse, a claim that was unfounded. This led to a confrontation where Joshua Ford was fatally shot, and Martha Crutchley was also killed, possibly by stabbing. The Sifrits dismembered the bodies and disposed of the remains in dumpsters across Delaware. ​

On May 31, 2002, the couple was arrested for burglarizing a Hooters restaurant. During the arrest, authorities found the victims' identification cards in Erika's purse. Erika confessed to aspects of the crime, leading to their convictions. She was convicted of first-degree murder in Ford's death and second-degree murder in Crutchley's, receiving a life sentence plus 20 years. ​