Houma, LA – A 70-year-old Louisiana man, Charles Johnson, has been charged in a “killing for hire” case after allegedly arranging for a hitman to murder his wife, officials said. Authorities say the motive was a divorce dispute, with Johnson reportedly seeking to protect his community property.
Details of the Murder
The victim, 56-year-old Pamela Johnson, was found dead with a single gunshot wound to the head in 2015. Her alleged killer, 43-year-old Shannon Robinson, and Charles Johnson were arrested this week in connection with the crime, according to the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney Joseph Waitz.
Waitz told reporters:
“It was a divorce going bad, and he felt like he had to do away with her to protect his property. That’s what we suspect.”
Discovery of the Crime
Authorities first learned of Pamela Johnson’s murder when two of her grandchildren reported the shooting. The children had been found near an abandoned vehicle registered in Pamela Johnson’s name around 8:30 a.m., alerting police to the crime. At the time, Charles and Pamela Johnson lived at a residence in Bourg, Louisiana.
Previous Investigations and Legal History
In 2022, Shannon Robinson and George Earl Robinson Jr., 33, were taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping for allegedly taking the grandchildren from the home. A grand jury, however, declined to pursue the charges at that time.
Authorities said new evidence surfaced, which led to the current arrests. Sheriff Tim Soignet explained:
“We can suspect, but we have to be able to prove, and over a period of time, we were able to get to this point to where now we can prove and feel 100% confident the family is going to get the justice they deserve.”
Motive and Property Dispute
Officials said the motive was linked to community property concerns, including fear of losing homes and possibly retirement savings. Waitz added:
“This is a very terrible case…that involved a domestic situation over community property. And to kill someone over this is very sad, very tragic.”
Charles Johnson allegedly hired Robinson to carry out the murder, while George Robinson Jr. has not been recharged, though authorities said investigations are ongoing.
Ongoing Investigation
Sheriff Soignet emphasized that investigators are still reviewing all details:
“We’re still investigating…We’re going to look at everything.”
Authorities continue to gather evidence and evaluate the involvement of others who may have been linked to the crime.
Conclusion
This case highlights the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into violent crimes, particularly when property and financial concerns are involved. Authorities say the arrests bring renewed hope for justice for Pamela Johnson’s family after years of uncertainty.
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