Florida pair charged with murder after sex-for-hire car theft plot went awry: deputies
Jessica Long and Michael Montgomery arrested in connection to killing of Wayne Barlow in June
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}A Florida man and woman are being charged with murder after a sex-for-hire plot to steal another man’s car in June did not go according to plan, authorities said Wednesday.
Michael Montgomery, 47, and Jessica Long, 37, were arrested in connection witjh the murder of 40-year-old Wayne Barlow, whose body was found on the side of a road, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said.
Barlow’s death appeared suspicious, according to officials, and it was later confirmed that he died of a gunshot wound to the head and had evidence of strangulation and blunt force trauma.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}An investigation revealed text messages between Long and Barlow in which they agreed to meet up in a wooded area to have sex, which Barlow would pay for, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by FOX 35 Orlando.
Jessica Long, 37, was arrested on Tuesday in connection to the murder of Wayne Barlow in June near Ocala, Florida. (Marion County Sheriff's Office)
After Barlow paid Long $80 through Cash App, Long allegedly signaled Montgomery to help steal the car while the pair would be having sex in the woods near the Regal Park area of Ocala, the affidavit said.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}But the pair’s plan went very wrong, officials say.
Barlow realized his car was being stolen and attacked Long before Montgomery jumped in, according to the affidavit.
Montgomery allegedly acted as the "muscle" in the pair's plan to steal Barlow's car while Long had sex with him in a secluded area, the affidavit alleges. (Marion County Sheriff's Office)
While Long drove, Montgomery allegedly pulled Barlow from the car and assaulted him with a pipe-like object before trying to run him over, according to the sheriff’s office. Witnesses said Montgomery then approached Barlow and allegedly shot him.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Montgomery reportedly told investigators that he agreed to take part in the plan for free drugs and sex. Long has previous arrests for grand theft, resisting arrest, prostitution and drug possession, the station reported.
Long and Montgomery are being charged with murder while engaged in a robbery. Montgomery is facing additional charges including parole violation, resisting arrest and aggravated battery.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Both are being held at the Marion County Jail with no bond.