Florida fugitive branded ‘master manipulator’ still on the run as tattoo evidence emerges, police warn public

Florida investigators have released new images showing the distinctive tattoos of murder suspect Isabelle Johnson. Authorities said the identifying marks could help locate the 38-year-old as a monthlong manhunt continues. Johnson is wanted in connection with the death of Jason Coulthart, whose body was found buried in a shallow grave in Freeport on June 25. Authorities now believe she may have changed her hair and appearance to avoid capture.

‘We Will Not allow Anyone To Get In Way Of The Investigation’

While appealing to the public, the Walton County Sheriff’s office said, “One month of searching for Isabelle Johnson, and our search has not slowed.” Investigators said Johnson may have cut and dyed her hair. They also say she uses several aliases. Authorities said she has at least six known aliases – Harley, Jessica, Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Elaine Thrash, Jessica Dowdy, and Denise.

They added, “Today, we’re releasing additional identifying features belonging to Isabelle, or Jessica, or Harley, or whatever name she’s going by today.”

Detailing her tattoos, authorities said Johnson has a rose or flower tattoo on her left hand extending from below her thumb toward her index finger. Investigators also said she may have an unidentified tattoo on her right ankle and a large scorpion tattoo running from her left buttock down her left thigh.

According to ABC News, she was last seen at a business in Destin, Florida. Authorities said Johnson is 5’3″ and weighs 120 lbs with hazel eyes. The sheriff’s office said she has ties to Walton and Okaloosa counties in Florida, along with parts of Georgia and southern Alabama.

Investigators warned the public that Johnson may attempt to manipulate people into giving her money, transportation or shelter by claiming to be a victim of domestic violence or other hardships. The agency described her as “cunning” and a “master manipulator.”

The sheriff’s office said, “Every lead is pursued. Every tip is investigated. Every day brings us one step closer. Someone knows where she is.”

Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson warned that anyone helping Johnson evade arrest could face charges. He said, “If you give her a place to stay, help her hide, or lie for her, you will face consequences. This is a homicide case. We will not allow anyone to get in the way of this investigation.”

About The Case

Coulthart, 43, was reported missing on May 24. He was last seen leaving the College Condominiums on East College Boulevard in Niceville. Detectives later obtained a search warrant and followed leads to a property on Sunset Lane in Freeport. During the search, they found a body in a shallow grave. DNA testing conducted by the District 1 Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the remains were Coulthart’s.

Five people have been charged as accessories to a capital felony: Michael Ray White, Kathleen Morris, Bobbi Wagstaff, Martin Leaverton and Sandra Leaverton.

Authorities allege White knowingly helped Johnson evade law enforcement. Morris admitted to providing her with transportation, supplies and misleading investigators, officials said. However, Johnson is the only person wanted on a murder charge.

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Original Article: Florida Fugitive Branded ‘Master Manipulator’ Still on the Run as Tattoo Evidence Emerges, Police Warn Public