Louisville, Kentucky – A Kentucky pediatrician, Dr. Stephanie Russell, faced charges in a murder-for-hire plot aimed at her ex-husband, Rick Crabtree. The case took a chilling turn when investigators discovered that before seeking a hitman’s services, Russell had explored the possibility of utilizing supernatural means to eliminate her former spouse.
In 2022, Russell was charged with using interstate commerce facilities to orchestrate the murder-for-hire scheme. Initially, she unknowingly contacted an undercover FBI agent posing as a hitman to carry out the act.
As the trial loomed, Russell’s defense team unveiled new evidence, including WhatsApp conversations between Russell and individuals claiming to possess expertise in “death spells.” The defense sought to demonstrate the extent of their client’s mental distress at the time of the incident.
The text messages revealed conversations between Russell and self-professed spiritualists, discussing the potential success rates, fees, and methods for executing “death spells.” These exchanges shed light on Russell’s state of mind and the various avenues she explored in pursuit of her sinister intentions.
Despite pleading not guilty, Russell’s defense is preparing to argue that she was not of sound mind during the murder-for-hire plot. The defense is relying on the disclosed messages to bolster their claim that Russell genuinely believed her ex-husband posed a threat to their children.
The case unfolded further as testimonies revealed Russell’s attempts to engage multiple individuals in her murder-for-hire scheme. From nurses at her medical office to spiritual healers, Russell allegedly sought support in eliminating Crabtree, eventually landing on an undercover FBI agent as the supposed hitman.
Ultimately, Russell’s agreement to pay a fee and coordinate her ex-husband’s demise led to her arrest. If convicted, Russell faces up to 10 years in federal prison without the possibility of parole. The trial is slated to commence on April 22, where the defense will present a case centered on Russell’s mental state during the events leading up to the murder-for-hire plot.