An 81-year-old woman from Florida found herself in handcuffs on Friday, accused of plotting a murder. According to authorities, she allegedly shared her deadly intentions with an undercover officer posing as a hitman.
The suspect, Elouise Ruth Leland, hailing from Hernando, was apprehended following a tip-off that she was actively searching for someone to carry out a killing. This information, received earlier in the month, prompted the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office to launch a swift investigation.
To gather evidence, detectives orchestrated a meeting between Leland and an officer undercover as the hired assassin. It was during this encounter, held on Friday, that Leland reportedly laid out her plan and agreed to terms of payment in exchange for the murder.
Following this incriminating discussion, law enforcement secured a warrant for her arrest and detained her without any complications. The charges against Leland include solicitation to commit first-degree murder.
Presently, she remains in custody at the Citrus County Detention Facility, held without the option of bail.
Leland was charged with solicitation to commit first-degree murder. She was booked into the Citrus County Detention Facility, where she is being held without bond.
Leland was arrested after detectives received confidential information earlier this month indicating she was seeking someone to carry out a killing, authorities said. (Citrus County Sheriff’s Office)
Authorities said detectives determined no other individuals were involved and that there is no danger to the intended victim.
“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 David Vincent said in a statement. “This case is yet another example of how we are stronger together.”
Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent said his office worked with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office to prevent a “senseless” murder. (Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, File)
Leland made headlines in January 2025 after she was arrested on animal cruelty charges in a case that resulted in the rescue of 90 dogs from her home, FOX13 Tampa reported at the time.
