Houston

Houston Couple Accused of Hiring Hit Man to Kill Ex-Partners

A Houston veterinarian and her boyfriend are accused of trying to hire an undercover police officer posing as a hit man to kill their former partners.

A judge Monday set bail for 48-year-old Valerie Busick McDaniel at $50,000. Bail was denied for 39-year-old Leon Philip Jacob.

Prosecutor Nathan Moss said McDaniel doesn't have a criminal history, but Jacob was on bail, charged with stalking and assaulting his ex-girlfriend.

The couple was arrested Friday. Prosecutors say they're charged with solicitation of capital murder. Prosecutors say McDaniel wanted her ex-husband killed while Jacob sought to have his ex-girlfriend kidnapped and killed.

Both remain in jail Monday and face up to life in prison if convicted.

Jail and court records don't list an attorney for Jacob. McDaniel's attorney didn't immediately return a message.

MORE: Couple Accused in Murder-for-Hire Plot Against Exes Appears in Court

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