California Woman Arrested for Hiring Hitman to Murder Ex-Boyfriend

Ignacia Cadaos Perkins, a 40-year-old woman from Murrieta, California, has been charged with murder following the death of her ex-boyfriend, Aaron Parr, aged 30. Parr was found dead on January 13, 2023, in his apartment, prompting a homicide investigation by the Murrieta Police Department due to suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

The Independent

On January 29, 2023, Perkins and an accomplice, James Lawrence Petri, 43, were arrested in Alabama. Both face charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Following these initial arrests, investigators continued their inquiry, leading to the identification and arrest of two additional accomplices: Jerry Wheeler, 34, in Brookhaven, Georgia, and Kenneth Maxwell, 39, in Midfield, Alabama. Wheeler and Maxwell also face charges related to murder and conspiracy, and both are awaiting extradition to California for trial.

The Independent

The Murrieta Police Department has indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with detectives examining a substantial volume of physical and digital evidence. They have not disclosed specific details about the motive behind Parr's murder, but reports suggest that financial gain may have played a role. The police have emphasized their commitment to thorough investigative efforts and coordination with various agencies across the United States.

The Independent

While the police have been diligent in their investigation, some community members have expressed concern over the safety and security in Murrieta, questioning how such a violent crime could occur in their area. There is also speculation regarding the adequacy of the police response and the measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Independent

The Murrieta Police Department stated, “Since the initial arrests, detectives have continued to diligently examine a substantial volume of physical evidence, digital evidence, and investigative leads.” They have also confirmed that further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

The Independent

• “Through persistent investigative efforts and coordination with partner agencies across the United States, detectives were able to identify and locate two additional accomplices involved in this homicide,” — Murrieta Police Department

The Independent

As the investigation continues, Perkins, Petri, Wheeler, and Maxwell are expected to face trial in California. The police have indicated that they will provide updates as new information becomes available, particularly regarding the circumstances of Parr's death and the motivations behind the alleged murder-for-hire scheme.

The Independent