JACKSONVILLE, Fla — A man was arrested for murder after reportedly stabbing a Westside woman to death after being hired by the woman's husband and mistress to do so, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office reported.
On Wednesday, June 17, JSO announced the arrest of Stephen Shelton Hand, 37, for the murder of Velvet Burns.
Velvet Burns was found dead inside her home in the 8800 block of Doris Lane on May 8 around 1:20 p.m., JSO said in a press conference in June. Officers arrested Velvet Burns' husband, Jerry Burns, and another woman, Amanda Love, on second-degree murder charges.
JSO discovered Jerry Burns was reportedly having an affair with Love. Love reportedly told investigators Jerry Burns offered her $5,000 to get someone to murder his wife.
On Wednesday, June 17, JSO announced the arrest of Stephen Shelton Hand, 37, for the murder of Velvet Burns. JSO said Hand and Velvet burns didn't know each other.
A witness reportedly observed Hand stabbing Velvet Burns and destroying evidence, JSO said. The report adds that forensic evidence also places Hand at the scene of the crime.
Hand has already been in JSO custody on unrelated charges since May 29.
JSO is looking for anyone with information on this murder to call them at 904-630-0500 or email JSOCrimeTips@JaxSheriff.org.