Nationwide Search for Isabelle Johnson Enters Second Month with New Tattoo Clues
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office marked one month since the discovery of Jason Christopher Coulthart’s remains in Freeport, releasing new photographs of a large bird tattoo on murder suspect Isabelle Johnson’s back as the nationwide manhunt enters its second month.
Chief Deputy Dustin Cosson told MyPanhandle that investigators are using video surveillance and other technology to track Johnson’s movements, following up on tips that extend well beyond Florida. “We know where she’s been. We think we have an idea of where she is possibly going,” Cosson said. “We receive constant tips every single day and every single one of them is being followed up on, not just locally, but also nationally. We’ve had a few that are well outside of the state of Florida.”
The newly released composite graphic shows seven photographs of Johnson with different hairstyles and appearances, including a large phoenix or bird tattoo spanning her back, a floral tattoo on her left hand, two cherries on her right ankle, and a scorpion extending from her left buttock down her left thigh. The back tattoo had not been publicly identified before this release. Cosson said the agency continues to receive new video and images of Johnson and is sharing them to help the public recognize her in whatever disguise she may be using.
Johnson, 38, is wanted on an open count of murder in connection with the death of Coulthart, a 43-year-old Niceville man whose remains were discovered June 25 buried in a shallow grave on a property on Sunset Lane in Freeport. Coulthart had been reported missing from his Niceville home in May. Five people have been arrested on charges of accessory after the fact to a capital felony for helping Johnson evade law enforcement between June 25 and June 30, and the U.S. Marshals Task Force has joined the search.
A total reward of up to $16,000 remains available — $11,000 from Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers and the Florida Sheriffs Association Criminal Apprehension Assistance Program, plus an additional $5,000 from the U.S. Marshals. Cosson warned that Johnson is known to manipulate people by fabricating stories of domestic violence or personal hardship to secure rides, money, or shelter, and urged the public to be cautious if contacted by someone matching her description.
Anyone with information about Johnson’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at (850) 892-8111, or remain anonymous by calling Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-TIPS (8477), submitting a tip at emeraldcoastcrimestoppers.com, or using the P3 Tips mobile app. Authorities stress that Johnson should be considered dangerous and should not be approached — call 911 immediately if spotted.
Originally reported by MyPanhandle (WMBB), Yahoo News, and Walton County Sheriff’s Office.
Image: MyPanhandle (WMBB)
