In a rather shocking turn of events, an 81-year-old woman from Florida found herself in police custody last Friday following accusations of attempting to orchestrate a murder-for-hire. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Elouise Ruth Leland from Hernando was apprehended after she allegedly outlined her deadly intentions to a law enforcement officer operating undercover.

The case unfolded when detectives were tipped off earlier this month with confidential information suggesting that Leland was on the lookout for someone willing to execute a murder on her behalf. This prompted authorities to initiate an investigation, leading to a strategic meeting arranged between Leland and an undercover officer posing as a hitman.

During the encounter, Leland reportedly went into specifics regarding her sinister plot and even agreed to compensate the supposed hitman for carrying out the murder. With this incriminating conversation, detectives secured a warrant for her arrest, which was executed smoothly and without any resistance.

Subsequently, Elouise Ruth Leland now faces serious charges, specifically solicitation to commit first-degree murder, according to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. This unusual case highlights the persistent efforts of law enforcement in thwarting potential violent crimes before they manifest.

Elouise Ruth Leland, 81, of Hernando, was charged with solicitation to commit first-degree murder. (Citrus County Sheriff’s Office)

Leland was charged with solicitation to commit first-degree murder. She was booked into the Citrus County Detention Facility, where she is being held without bond.

Leland was arrested after detectives received confidential information earlier this month indicating she was seeking someone to carry out a killing, authorities said. (Citrus County Sheriff’s Office)

Authorities said detectives determined no other individuals were involved and that there is no danger to the intended victim.

“Thanks to the quick actions of our Criminal Investigations Division and partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, we were able to prevent the senseless murder of another,” Sheriff David Vincent said in a statement. “This case is yet another example of how we are stronger together.”

Citrus County Sheriff David Vincent said his office worked with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office to prevent a “senseless” murder. (Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, File)

Leland made headlines in January 2025 after she was arrested on animal cruelty charges in a case that resulted in the rescue of 90 dogs from her home, FOX13 Tampa reported at the time.