The two remaining defendants in the Sergio Pino murder-for-hire case have pleaded guilty in Miami federal court, bringing the total who have admitted guilt to nine.
The U.S. attorney’s office said Tallahassee resident Clementa Johnson pleaded guilty to four counts: conspiracy to commit murder for hire, murder for hire, stalking and firearm possession by a convicted felon. Diori Barnard, who lives in Miami, admitted guilt on charges that include murder for hire and a related conspiracy count, his attorney Danise Ponton confirmed.
Prosecutors alleged that Pino, a South Florida developer, worked through intermediaries to organize two groups to intimidate, attack and ultimately try to kill his estranged wife, Tatiana, during their divorce. He died by suicide at his Coral Gables home in July 2024 as FBI agents prepared to arrest him.
Seven other defendants had already pleaded guilty. The latest pleas mean Johnson and Barnard will not face the jury trial that had been scheduled; Johnson’s sentencing is set for Dec. 21.
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