US Woman, Who Poisoned Husband’s Coffee, Strikes Plea Deal To Avoid Jail

An Arizona woman, who admitted to poisoning her husband’s coffee with bleach, has struck a plea deal to avoid jail time. Melody Felicano Johnson was initially charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault and adding harmful substances to food, drink or medicine in August 2023. She could have been jailed for a maximum of two years for each count. 

However, last month, she pleaded guilty to two counts of adding poison or a harmful substance to food or drink. Ms Johnson’s lawyer argued for leniency, citing her nearly year-long custody while unable to post her $250,000 (₹ 2,08,79,375) bail. As part of the plea deal, Ms Johnson has now been sentenced to three years of probation and is required to undergo mental health treatment. She has also been allowed to contact her husband only in the presence of a legal team, reports CNN. 

The case had revealed disturbing details about the couple’s relationship. Ms Johnson’s estranged husband, Roby, who works in the Air Force, believed she was trying to kill him to collect death benefits.