An 81-year-old woman from Florida has found herself behind bars, accused of attempting to arrange a murder-for-hire, according to authorities in Citrus County.
The investigation kicked off earlier this month when a confidential tip reached the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), suggesting that the woman, identified as Leland, was allegedly seeking someone to execute a killing on her behalf.
In a swift response, the CCSO’s Special Investigations Unit teamed up with the Major Crimes Unit to orchestrate a sting operation. They deployed an undercover officer who posed as a hitman willing to carry out the sinister task.
Reports indicate that last Friday, Leland met with the undercover agent to iron out the details of the planned crime. During this encounter, she allegedly laid out her plan and agreed to compensate the supposed assassin for his services.
Once the authorities had the necessary evidence of the agreement, they procured an arrest warrant. Leland was apprehended without any issues and taken to the Citrus County Detention Facility, according to FOX News Digital.
The CCSO, in collaboration with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, confirmed that Leland acted alone in this plot. Officials reassured the public that the intended victim is unharmed and emphasized that there is no lingering threat to the wider community.
Sheriff David Vincent praised the collaborative efforts that led to the arrest, noting that the partnership between the different divisions was instrumental in saving a life.
“Thanks to the quick actions of our Criminal Investigations Division and partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, we were able to prevent the senseless murder of another,” Sheriff Vincent stated.
“This case is yet another example of how we are stronger together and working together ensures the safety and integrity of our community.”
The Sheriff added that his office is now working alongside the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office to pursue the full extent of the law in Leland’s prosecution.
Leland is being held without bond on a charge of solicitation to commit first-degree murder.
[Feature Photo via Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO)]
