HOUMA, LA – Two men were arrested in connection with a murder-for-hire plot that led to the 2015 death of a local woman, prosecutors announced this week. The case, which had remained unresolved for years, centers on a bitter divorce and an alleged scheme to prevent the division of property.
Charles Johnson, 70, of Houma, was taken into custody alongside Shannon Robinson, 43, after investigators say he arranged for Robinson to fatally shoot his wife, Pamela Johnson. The killing unfolded as the couple’s marriage was ending and a legal battle over assets loomed.
Pamela Johnson, then 56, was found dead from a single gunshot wound to the head at the couple’s residence in Bourg. The discovery was made after her two grandchildren, who had been at the scene, flagged down a passerby to report the crime on a Tuesday morning. Authorities responded and quickly located her body.
Detectives say the motive for the killing stemmed from Johnson’s desire to avoid splitting community property, which included shared houses and retirement savings. According to investigators, Johnson viewed divorce as a threat to his financial security and acted to prevent the division of assets.
The renewed investigation leading to the arrests was sparked by recently uncovered evidence, officials said. While authorities did not release specific details to protect the integrity of the prosecution, they expressed confidence that they now have sufficient proof to bring those responsible to justice.
In 2022, Robinson and his relative, George Earl Robinson Jr., 33, of Houma, were initially arrested and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping for allegedly taking the grandchildren from the home during the incident. However, at that time, a grand jury declined to indict. The case remained unsolved as authorities continued to gather evidence.
With this week’s developments, only Charles Johnson and Shannon Robinson face charges. Prosecutors did not rule out the possibility of further arrests, saying the investigation remains ongoing and all possible leads are being pursued. George Robinson Jr. has not been recharged, but officials said his involvement remains under review.
District Attorney Joseph Waitz described the case as a deeply tragic example of domestic conflict spiraling into violence. He noted the especially disturbing nature of the crime, motivated by a dispute over property rather than unresolved personal issues.
Sheriff Tim Soignet emphasized that patience and diligence over several years were critical in moving the case forward. He said investigators have now reached a point where they believe the Johnson family will finally receive the justice they have sought for almost a decade.
Both Charles Johnson and Shannon Robinson are currently being held as the legal process moves ahead. Court dates and trial proceedings have not yet been announced.