80-Year-Old Missouri Man Charged in Double Murder-for-Hire Plot While Attempting to Hire a Hitman
2 min read
Prosecutors charged Harley Koestner with two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree and one count of Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. (Photo By Cole County Jail)
RUSSELLVILLE, MO (The Lake Tribune) — In a shocking turn of events, 80-year-old Harley Koestner of Russellville, Missouri, has been arrested and charged with attempting to orchestrate the murders of two relatives. The arrest occurred on Sunday morning at a local convenience store, marking a chilling development in what authorities describe as a murder-for-hire plot.
Court documents reveal that Koestner approached an individual, offering money in exchange for the murder of a male and a female relative. This conversation, recorded by the would-be accomplice, was subsequently provided to the Cole County Sheriff’s Office, leading to Koestner’s arrest.
The recording captures a detailed discussion between Koestner and the witness, including the agreed price for the murders, potential methods of execution, and the location of the intended victims. Koestner reportedly inquired if the witness possessed a firearm or knew how to procure one, showcasing the premeditation behind the nefarious scheme.
In a further incriminating move, Koestner arranged a meeting the following day to drive the witness to another county to show them where the targets resided. During this outing, Koestner compensated the witness for gathering intelligence on the victims, cementing his intent to proceed with the plot.
Upon their stop at a gas station, law enforcement officials apprehended Koestner. During the arrest, he confessed to attempting to hire a witness for the execution of the murder plot against his family members.
Harley Koestner now faces severe legal repercussions, with charges including two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree and one count of Conspiracy to Commit a Felony laid against him. He is currently detained in the Cole County Jail and denied bond pending further proceedings.
This case underscores the disturbing reality that criminal intent can manifest at any age. Authorities continue to investigate the case, promising further updates as they become available.
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