MOORESVILLE, N.C. — A Mooresville woman is facing federal charges for hiring someone to kill her ex-husband and his family, according to information in an affidavit unsealed Tuesday.
A grand jury indicted Debra Arno, 56, in early June.
Investigators said they got a tip from a confidential witness that another person had been given money by Arno to murder her ex-husband, his current wife and their daughter, according to an affidavit.
"The informant told New York police that Arno delivered the money to Lauren Frye for the purpose of having Frye murder the ex-husband of Arno, along with his current wife and daughter," according to documents.
Investigators then found a text from Arno to Frye.
"I am enclosing $6,000," the text read. "I will give you an additional $14,000 upon completion, a total of $20,000. A man, his description, and address enclosed (are) to be eliminated or hurt. He lives with two other people. Both expendable (if there is an accident)."
Agents arrested Arno days later while executing a search warrant at her Mooresville home.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
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