The Smith County Sheriff’s Office made what they call “a significant arrest” on Sunday, June 23.
Authorities say they foiled a disturbing murder-for-hire plot allegedly orchestrated by Randall Hutchinson, a resident of Smith County. He was apprehended as he attempted to leave town following an investigation by Smith County investigators.
Sheriff Joel Houston said in a release that the investigation revealed that Hutchinson had approached an individual with an offer to commit murder on his behalf. Hutchinson had allegedly contracted the individual to carry out the killings of two Smith County residents in exchange for a payment totaling $12,000. Authorities say Hutchinson provided the individual with a firearm, gloves, and ammunition intended for use in the crimes.
“With the quick actions of our investigators, we were able to intervene and prevent a potentially tragic outcome,” said Houston. “The recovery of the weapon, gloves, and ammunition Hutchinson had supplied, along with additional evidence gathered during the investigation, stressed the severity of the threat posed by Hutchinson’s intentions.”
Randall Hutchinson was apprehended without incident as he attempted to flee the area. He has been taken into custody and is facing two felony charges related to an attempt to commit an offense of murder.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that there is no ongoing threat to public safety associated with this incident.
“We want to assure the residents of Smith County that we take threats to public safety very seriously,” Houston said. “Our swift response and collaboration with law enforcement agencies have led to the apprehension of the suspect and the disruption of this dangerous plan.”
The Smith County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the community members who provided information and cooperated during the investigation. The case remains under investigation as additional details are being reviewed.
Hutchinson has a $100,000.00 bond set by the Justice Court Judge. The case will be turned over to the District Attorney’s Office of the 13th district for prosecution.
To report criminal activity, please contact the Smith County Sheriff’s Department at (601) 782-4531.
