Fentanyl Overdose Confirmed in Husband's Death

Forensic toxicologist Brianna Peterson testified that Eric Richins had a lethal dosage of fentanyl in his body at the time of his death, along with other substances. This testimony came to light during the murder trial of Kouri Richins. Carmen Lauber, a friend, testified about obtaining drugs for Kouri Richins on four separate occasions in early 2022. Lauber stated she questioned Kouri Richins about the fentanyl pills after learning of Eric Richins' death, but was told he died of a brain aneurysm. Lauber admitted to a history of drug possession but stated she has been sober for four years and felt accountable for her involvement.

Lauber described how Kouri Richins requested increasingly potent drugs, including fentanyl. She detailed one instance where she obtained $1,000 for Kouri Richins to purchase fentanyl, which she then buried at a property. Kouri Richins is also accused of making her husband sick with drugs on Valentine's Day 2022. During cross-examination, defense attorneys questioned Lauber's sobriety during the period she was obtaining drugs, presenting evidence of her regular drug use in February and March 2022. Kouri Richins faces charges including aggravated murder and attempted aggravated murder.