Trial Date Set for Utah Woman Accused of Poisoning Her Husband
Kouri Richins Faces Felony Murder Charges
Kouri Richins, a Utah woman charged with the murder of her husband Eric Richins, is slated to stand trial beginning February 23, 2026. The announcement comes after a lengthy two-year period filled with various motions and procedural delays. Jury selection is scheduled for February 10, and the trial is expected to last approximately five weeks, according to reports.
Allegations of Foul Play
Richins, 33, has been accused of felony murder in the death of her husband, who succumbed to what authorities describe as a fatal overdose of fentanyl in March 2022. Prosecutors allege that she tainted his Moscow Mule cocktail with the synthetic opioid as part of a calculated plan to benefit from his life insurance policy. The prosecution also stated that she spiked a Valentine’s Day sandwich in an earlier attempt on his life.
According to an arrest affidavit, Eric Richins became seriously ill after consuming a drink prepared by his wife during a trip to Greece a few years prior. He reported the incident to his sister, indicating ongoing concerns about his wife’s behavior.
Additional Financial Charges
In addition to the murder charge, Kouri Richins faces multiple financial fraud counts involving real estate and insurance schemes. Authorities allege she made unauthorized changes to Eric’s life insurance beneficiary, reportedly naming herself just two months before his death. The insurance company reversed the beneficiary changes after querying the involved parties.
Richins has consistently maintained her innocence, with her attorneys expressing confidence in her eventual acquittal. “After two years in jail, we are relieved that Kouri has a trial date. We are eager for the truth to come out and for the false narratives that have defined this case to be confronted in a court of law,” said attorneys Kathy Nester and Wendy Lewis.
Background on Kouri Richins
Richins is a mother of three children. Following the tragic death of her husband, she gained media attention for publishing a children’s book, “Are You with Me?”, which depicts a father watching over his son after passing away. This publication has come under scrutiny amidst the ongoing investigation into her husband’s death.
As the trial date approaches, many details remain uncertain, and updates are expected as the legal proceedings continue. The community is closely watching this case, which has drawn significant media attention and public interest.
For more updates on this developing story, continue to follow local news sources.
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