A Florida woman has been charged with murder, and authorities are warning the public that Isabelle Rose Johnson, 38, is considered 'dangerous' as she remains at large. Johnson is accused of killing Jason Christopher Coulthart, 43, whose body was found buried in a shallow grave on a property in Freeport, Florida.
The Walton County Sheriff's Office announced that Johnson may have crossed into Georgia as the search for her continues. A reward of up to $11,000 is being offered for information leading to her capture. Investigators stated that Johnson has a history of manipulating people for assistance, often using fabricated stories of hardship.
Authorities believe Johnson may be moving between various locations and has ties to Okaloosa and Walton counties in Florida, as well as several counties in Georgia, the city of Newnan, and parts of lower Alabama. She is also suspected of using aliases, including Harley, Jessica Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Dowdy, and possibly Denise, in an effort to evade law enforcement. Johnson is described as a white woman, approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 120 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She has a floral tattoo on her left hand and another on her right ankle.
Security footage captured Johnson days after the victim's remains were found, appearing to be at a counter while holding a phone. Officials believe she may have altered her appearance, possibly by cutting or dyeing her hair, to disguise her identity. The Newnan Police Department issued a statement cautioning the public: "Johnson should be considered dangerous. If you see her, do not approach her. Call 911 immediately."
Coulthart was last seen on May 24 leaving the College Condominiums and was reported missing later that night. Investigators developed information that led them to the Freeport property weeks later, where human remains were discovered. The District 1 Medical Examiner's Office confirmed through DNA testing that the remains belonged to Coulthart.
Several individuals have been arrested for allegedly assisting Johnson in evading capture. Michael Ray White, 74, and Kathleen Morris, 59, were arrested on July 10 and charged with offenses including accessory to a capital felony after the fact and obstruction. Authorities claim they provided Johnson with shelter, supplies, and transportation, and misled law enforcement. Martin and Sandra Leaverton also face charges for allegedly retrieving Johnson's belongings, providing her with a cellphone, and attempting to arrange for her to hide outside Florida. Bobbi Wagstaff, 31, was arrested and charged with accessory after the fact to capital murder and possession of methamphetamine.
Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson stated that anyone found to have aided Johnson in evading arrest will face charges. He emphasized, "This is a homicide. We will not allow anyone to get in the way of this investigation."
Preliminary findings suggest the incident was isolated and domestic in nature, with no ongoing threat to the public. Coulthart, an electrician, was remembered in his obituary for his hard work, kindness, humor, and generous spirit. He enjoyed fishing, boating, watching sunrises and sunsets, and playing basketball with his son.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Walton County Sheriff's Office at (850) 892-8111 or Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-8477.