Walton County Sheriff's Department investigators have detailed an alleged network of accomplices accused of assisting fugitive Isabelle Rose Johnson, 38, in hiding a body and evading capture for weeks. Johnson is accused of murdering Jason Coulthart, 43, whose remains were discovered in a shallow grave on June 25. Coulthart was last seen alive on May 24.
Newly released arrest reports outline how Johnson, described as a "master manipulator," allegedly used aliases, altered appearances, and enlisted the help of multiple individuals to stay hidden from authorities. Five individuals have been arrested on charges of accessory after the fact to first-degree murder and other offenses for their alleged roles in assisting Johnson.
Alleged Body Concealment
According to one arrest report, a witness told investigators that Johnson allegedly killed Coulthart by placing a zip tie around his neck. The same witness reportedly stated that Johnson then covered the body with cement to prevent it from being dug up. The alleged motive, according to the witness, was that Coulthart was "aggravating and irritating" Johnson and had threatened to interfere with her custody of her children.
Bobbie Gean Wagstaff, 31, Johnson's reported roommate, is charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder and possession of methamphetamine for allegedly helping to dig the hole and bury Coulthart's body.
Aiding Evasion
Husband and wife Martin and Sandra Leaverton, of Fort Walton Beach, are accused of providing Johnson with multiple rides after Coulthart's body was discovered. Investigators allege the couple helped move Johnson between homes and attempted to facilitate her departure from the state. The Leavertons are charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. According to reports, Martin Leaverton agreed to contact associates to arrange safe passage and lodging for Johnson outside of Florida, while the couple also provided rides and supplies and offered false information to law enforcement regarding her whereabouts.
Michael White and Kathleen Morris, of Santa Rosa, Florida, are also charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder and obstruction without violence. Investigators allege they provided Johnson with a place to stay and supplies while she was on the run, and initially denied her presence before admitting to sheltering her at two properties.
Text messages between Morris, White, and Martin Leaverton, cited in reports, appear to show coordination of Johnson's movements and efforts to assist her. Johnson has allegedly used aliases including "Harley," "Jessica Elaine Bowman," and "Denise."
The investigation into the murder and the alleged network of assistance is ongoing.