$11,000 REWARD OFFERED: Mu-r-der Suspect Still on the Run as Authorities Fear She Could Be Hiding in Georgia
Authorities are warning that a Florida murder suspect with ties to Georgia may be in the state, as investigators continue making arrests in the case.
Law enforcement agencies in Georgia, Florida and Alabama are searching for 38-year-old Isabelle Rose Johnson in connection with the death of Jason Christopher Coulthart, 43.
Coulthart was reported missing to Niceville Police on May 24, and weeks later, investigators found his remains buried in a shallow grave on a property in Freeport, Florida. The District 1 Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed through DNA that the remains were his.
Law enforcement urges residents to stay alert
Georgia authorities are paying close attention because Johnson is known to frequent Habersham County and other parts of North Georgia. Investigators say she also has ties to Athens-Clarke, Carroll County, Harris County and Newnan.
Local agencies are asking residents to stay alert and report any possible sightings.
More arrests made in the investigation
Investigators in Walton County, Fla. have arrested more people accused of helping Johnson avoid capture.
Michael Ray White, 74, and Kathleen Morris, 59, both of Santa Rosa Beach, were arrested July 10 on charges including accessory after the fact and obstruction. Authorities say they helped Johnson by giving her a place to stay, providing supplies, transporting her and misleading deputies.
Investigators also said Martin and Sandra Leaverton admitted to helping Johnson by retrieving her belongings, giving her a cellphone and trying to find her shelter out of state. Both remain jailed in Walton County.
Suspect considered dangerous
Johnson is considered dangerous. She is described as a white woman, about 5-foot-3 and 120 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes, though investigators believe she may have changed her appearance by cutting and dyeing her hair.
Authorities say she has used several aliases, including Harley, Jessica Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Elaine Thrash, Jessica Dowdy and possibly Denise. She may also have a floral tattoo on her left hand and another tattoo on her right ankle.
Officials say no one should approach her. Anyone who sees her should call 911 immediately.
Reward offered for information
A reward of up to $11,000 is being offered for information leading to Johnson’s arrest.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at 850-892-8111 or submit an anonymous tip through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at 850-863-TIPS (8477).
