Reward Jumps to $11,000 for Tips Leading to Arrest of Freeport Murder Suspect
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office has increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of Isabelle Johnson to $11,000, as investigators warn the fugitive murder suspect may have cut and dyed her hair to disguise her identity.
Johnson, 38, is wanted on an open count of murder in the killing of 43-year-old Jason Christopher Coulthart, whose remains were discovered June 25 buried in a shallow grave on a property off Sunset Lane in Freeport. Five people have been arrested so far on charges of accessory after the fact to a capital felony, accused of helping Johnson evade law enforcement between June 25 and June 30.
The new reward total combines $6,000 from Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers and an additional $5,000 from the Florida Sheriffs Association Criminal Apprehension Assistance Program. The previous reward had been listed at $3,000 through Crime Stoppers alone.
Investigators released updated details about Johnson’s appearance and behavior, cautioning that she may have recently cut her hair short and dyed it to change her look. She is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall and 120 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She is known to use multiple identities and aliases, including Harley, Jessica Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Elaine Thrash, Jessica Dowdy, and possibly “Denise.” She has ties to Okaloosa and Walton counties in Florida, as well as areas in Georgia and lower Alabama.
The sheriff’s office noted that Johnson moves frequently and often persuades people to help her by appealing to their sympathy, including claims of domestic violence or other personal hardships, to secure rides, money, or shelter. She is believed to have a floral tattoo on her left hand near her thumb and forefinger, as well as a tattoo on her right ankle.
Anyone with information on Johnson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at (850) 892-8111. Anonymous tips must be submitted through Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 863-TIPS (8477) to be eligible for the reward. Authorities urge the public not to approach Johnson if spotted — call 911 immediately.
Sources: MyPanhandle (WMBB), WJHG Newschannel 7, Walton County Sheriff’s Office
