CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – An 81-year-old Hernando resident is currently being held without bond after authorities say she attempted to hire a hitman to kill another person.
Elouise Ruth Leland was arrested on Friday, January 16, by the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). She faces a charge of solicitation to commit first-degree murder following a sting operation involving an undercover officer.
The investigation began earlier this month when detectives received a tip that Leland was actively looking for someone to carry out a murder. Acting on the confidential information, the Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit and Major Crimes Unit, assisted by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, arranged a meeting between Leland and an undercover detective posing as a contract killer.
READ: Florida Couple Jailed After Roaches Found Crawling On Baby, Emerging From Senior’s Skin
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the meeting took place on Thursday. Investigators allege that during the conversation, Leland discussed specific details of the plot and agreed to provide compensation to the undercover officer in exchange for the murder.
Following the meeting, detectives secured an arrest warrant and took Leland into custody. Authorities reported that the arrest occurred without incident.
Sheriff David Vincent credited the swift response of the investigators for ensuring the victim’s safety.
READ: Produce And Poison: Fentanyl ‘Tranq’ Pills Peddled From Georgia Farmers Market Stand
“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 said in a statement. “We will continue to work closely with the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office to ensure Leland is held fully accountable for her actions.”
Investigators have determined that no other suspects were involved in the plot. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is currently no danger to the intended victim.
Leland was transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility, where she remains in custody.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
