An 81-year-old Hernando woman was arrested on charges of solicitation to commit first-degree murder, according to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). Elouise Leland is accused of attempting to hire an undercover law enforcement officer, who was posing as a hitman, to carry out a murder.
The investigation began after CCSO received a tip earlier in January. On Friday last week, Leland met with an undercover detective and discussed plans and payment for the alleged crime, according to WFLA. Following the meeting, investigators obtained a warrant and arrested Leland without incident. She was taken to the Citrus County Jail, where she is being held without bond. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the arrest, CCSO said.
CCSO has not released information about the intended victim or their relationship to Leland. Authorities stated that the intended victim is not in danger and that no other individuals were involved in the plan, according to Idaho News. The investigation was handled by CCSO’s Special Investigations Unit and Major Crimes Unit.
Leland has faced previous legal issues. In 2023, she was charged with animal cruelty after nearly 100 dogs were found living in poor conditions at her home, and a deceased dog was discovered outside, according to FOX 13 News. She was charged with aggravated animal cruelty and multiple counts of animal neglect.
The case remains under investigation and is being prosecuted by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office.
