Multi-state search continues for Walton County murder suspect, Isabelle Johnson

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Walton County investigators are offering up to $16,000 for information leading to the arrest of suspect Isabelle Johnson after a nearly month-long search.

Investigators say Johnson is wanted in connection with the murder of Jason Coulthart. His remains were found in a shallow grave in Freeport in June.

“A friend, a brother, a sibling, a son was taken from their family, and so what we do with that is we use it as motivation,” said Chief Deputy Dustin Cosson of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office.

Law enforcement has arrested five people for allegedly assisting Johnson in evading arrest.

“Giving rides, providing money, cell phones, things like that,” said Cosson. “Things like that to help her — I’m going to say prior-to, during, and after, and continuing to potentially provide her some support while she’s continuing to evade us."

Johnson is still on the run. Investigators are urging the public to use caution.

“What we want the public to be aware of, if you encounter anybody that is seeking some sort of help, seeking a ride, seeking money, seeking — you know, can I use your phone — be cautious of that,” Cosson said.

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office describes Johnson as a white woman, about 5 feet 3 inches tall, around 120 pounds, with brown hair that may be dyed. She has tattoos on her hand and ankle.

“Her appearance tends to change depending on where she is and what she’s doing,” Cosson said.

Investigators said Johnson has been moving around Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. Authorities are working with federal and local partners to track her.

“Sometimes you have to work backwards to move forwards,” said Cosson. “So finding those locations, a lot of local agencies that have been helping us in the areas that we know she’s either had previous addresses, or just has those connections to those communities.”

Authorities say they have been working nonstop on this case and are determined to bring Johnson to justice.

“We’re going to get you, there’s no question, we’ll find you,” Cosson said. “You’re going to be held accountable for what you’ve done.”

If you have information on Isabelle Johnson’s whereabouts — call the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at 850-892-8111 — or Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers at 850-863-tips.

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