Jackson, Missouri resident Joshua Peikert found himself behind bars at the Corrigan Correctional Institute in Uncasville, New London County, when he was arrested on Monday, April 1. The charges against Peikert involved a disturbing scheme to have four individuals killed, as announced by the Connecticut State Police on Thursday, April 4.
Authorities revealed that the targets of Peikert’s alleged plot included a 29-year-old woman, a 10-year-old girl, a 1-year-old girl, and a 23-year-old man. The investigation into Peikert’s actions began in October 2022 after a former inmate at Corrigan sent a warning letter to one of the victims, revealing details of a “murder for hire” plan involving them and their loved ones.
This former inmate disclosed that Peikert had shared his plan with him during their time as cellmates. Peikert expressed willingness to pay for the murders, with a promised upfront payment and the rest upon completion. Despite the former inmate’s reluctance to engage in violence, Peikert’s brother, Jeremiah Peikert, reportedly facilitated payments related to the scheme.
Following the revelations, Joshua Peikert faced charges of conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to commit risk of injury to minors. Despite being unable to post the $500,000 bond, Peikert remains in custody under the Connecticut Department of Correction. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Peikert was apprehended in Texas and is awaiting extradition to Connecticut to face similar charges.
The investigation into the scheme continues to unfold, shedding light on the disturbing nature of the alleged plot and the individuals involved. It is a sobering reminder of the gravity of criminal intentions and the lengths some may go to in pursuit of their malicious objectives. The authorities’ swift action in thwarting the plan highlights the significance of vigilance and cooperation in combating such threats to public safety.