Hernando, Florida An 81-year-old woman with a prior criminal history is facing a serious felony charge after investigators say she attempted to hire someone to commit murder, only to meet with an undercover law enforcement officer instead.
According to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, Elouise Leland was taken into custody following an investigation that began with confidential information indicating she was seeking a hitman. Detectives from the sheriff’s office, working with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, arranged a controlled meeting between Leland and an undercover detective posing as a contract killer.
Authorities say the meeting took place on January 16, during which Leland allegedly discussed specific details of the planned killing and agreed to provide payment in exchange for carrying it out. Following the meeting, deputies obtained an arrest warrant and charged Leland with solicitation to commit first-degree murder. She was booked into the Citrus County Detention Facility and is being held without bond.
Investigators said the intended victim was not harmed and is not believed to be in danger. Officials also stated that no additional suspects were involved in the alleged plot.
The arrest comes roughly one year after Leland faced multiple felony charges related to animal cruelty. In January 2025, deputies said she failed to care for numerous dogs at her home, resulting in the death of at least one animal from malnutrition and the rescue of dozens of others. Sheriff David Vincent said the coordinated investigation prevented a potential killing and emphasized continued cooperation between agencies.
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