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Isabelle Johnson news

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The gist

Isabelle Johnson, 38, arrested Thursday after 45-day manhunt for murder of Jason Coulthart.
The arrest ends a three-state search and raises questions about the trial and accomplices.

Background

Isabelle Johnson was wanted for the murder of 43-year-old Jason Coulthart, whose body was found buried in a shallow grave in Freeport, Florida on June 25. She evaded law enforcement for nearly two months, prompting a multistate manhunt across Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. Five people were previously arrested for allegedly aiding her.

How it unfolded

  1. Jun 25, 2026Jason Coulthart's remains found buried in a shallow grave in Freeport, Florida.
  2. Aug 11, 2026Authorities continue searching for Johnson; five people arrested for accessory after the fact.
  3. Aug 13, 2026Johnson arrested by U.S. Marshals task force at a home in Cottondale, Florida.

Who’s saying what

Official
Walton County Sheriff's Office confirmed Johnson's arrest and said no one will receive reward money since a tip did not lead to her capture.
Public
Social media posts highlighted Johnson's shirt reading 'Force to be reckoned with' during her arrest.

Still unverified

Details of Johnson's arrest and the investigation remain active; additional information has not been released.

Sources

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