State Rep. Barb Byrum The Target Of Alleged Murder For Hire Plot

DETROIT (WWJ) - An alleged murder for hire plot against a state law-maker is thwarted before it takes place. WWJ's Lansing Bureau Chief Tim Skubick has details about the true accounts that sound more like a Hollywood crime drama.

In an update Friday evening, a statement has been released identifying State Rep. Barb Byrum (D-Onondaga)as the intented target of the plot.

The allegation, according to State Police, is that an inmate spoke to a second inmate, who was going to be released from prison soon, asking him to hire a hit man for his intended crime.

The second inmate, wanted nothing to do with the plot, and went to the authorities.

An undercover officer, acting as the hit-man, called the inmate behind bars and basically got the plans for the scheme, in a phone call.

"I want to thank the Michigan State Police for uncovering this plot. Because this is an active and ongoing investigation, and to protect the privacy of my family, I will be making no further comments about this matter," said Byrum in a statement provided to WWJ.

The investigation is still active, but it is believed that the alleged plot included kidnapping, holding the hostage captive and possibly killing the intended victim.

The inmate will be charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Officials have not released information as to his court date.