Two men have been arrested in connection to the disappearance and death of 43-year-old Janice Cook, whose body was found after being reported missing in April 2024. Billy Tabor, 70, and Colby Eisel, 39, were charged with abandoning a corpse, while Tabor was also charged with first-degree murder. Authorities say both men were involved in moving Cook’s body after she was allegedly killed.
Details of Janice Cook’s Disappearance
Cook was reported missing on April 9, 2024, after her social media activity abruptly stopped on March 27, 2024. Her family and friends grew concerned when they found her dog abandoned a mile away from her vehicle, which was found on March 28. Authorities noted that Cook would never have left her dog behind, adding to the alarm surrounding her disappearance.
A witness later came forward, stating that they had visited Tabor’s property early in the morning of March 28 and saw Cook lying on the ground. The witness described Tabor as being agitated and pacing back and forth. This new information prompted authorities to investigate Tabor further.
Investigation and Arrest of Billy Tabor
When questioned by police, Tabor admitted that Cook had been at his residence briefly on March 28 but claimed she left after a “couple of hours.” Tabor could not provide an exact time for when Cook supposedly left.
Further investigation revealed that Tabor had allegedly made a chilling comment to an unnamed woman, saying she “would not have to worry about J.J. anymore,” referring to Cook by her nickname. When questioned about Cook’s death, Tabor reportedly “laughed and walked away without providing a response,” raising further suspicions.
On April 30, authorities received additional information from a neighboring county. A witness told police that he had visited Tabor’s property around 2 a.m. on March 28 and saw Cook lying on the ground, appearing to be deceased.
The witness claimed Tabor then tied ropes to Cook’s body and used his Honda CR-V to drag her further down the property. The two men allegedly dug a grave and buried Cook’s body, with Tabor reportedly threatening the witness if he did not help move Cook’s vehicle and belongings to Johnson County.
Discovery of Cook’s Remains
Police continued to investigate and questioned Tabor again. He invoked his right to counsel and was arrested. Tabor was charged with first-degree murder and abandonment of a corpse. After being led by the witness back to the property, police recovered human remains, which they believe belong to Cook. The remains are still awaiting confirmation through forensic testing.
Eisel was charged with abandonment of a corpse, and both men are currently held at the Henry County Jail. Tabor is being held without bond and is scheduled for a bond hearing on May 5, while Eisel’s bond has been set at $250,000 cash-only. His next court date is not yet available.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are still gathering evidence related to Cook’s death. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office has expressed their commitment to seeking justice for Cook and has made contact with her family as they await further forensic confirmation.
