What toxins are domestic partners using to poison loved ones?

Domestic partners are increasingly using chemical and biological toxins such as cyanide, fentanyl, antifreeze, and eye drops to poison their loved ones.

How many cases of domestic poisoning have been reported since 2014?

Since 2014, the Department of Homeland Security has documented 17 cases of people attempting to poison their family members.

What are the public safety risks associated with domestic poisonings?

The use of toxic agents in domestic settings poses public safety risks if toxins contaminate air, water, or surfaces, and also endangers first responders.

Home / Crime and Justice / DHS Warns: Domestic Partners Weaponize Poisons

DHS Warns: Domestic Partners Weaponize Poisons

5 Feb

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Summary

Domestic partners increasingly use toxins like cyanide and fentanyl.
Seventeen cases since 2014 involved poisonings in family settings.
DHS warns of risks to public safety and first responders.

DHS Warns: Domestic Partners Weaponize Poisons

A recent Department of Homeland Security bulletin reveals a disturbing trend: domestic partners are increasingly employing chemical and biological toxins in their attacks. Since 2014, at least 17 cases have been documented where individuals attempted to poison family members, resulting in 11 fatalities. The toxins used range from common household substances like antifreeze and eye drops to more potent agents such as cyanide and fentanyl.

The bulletin specifically cites the case of a Colorado dentist, James Craig, who was convicted for poisoning his wife's protein shakes with cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, leading to her death in March 2023. His motive was reportedly infidelity and a desire to end their marriage. He received a life sentence without parole.

Another case highlighted is that of Kouri Richins, a Utah author accused of fatally poisoning her husband with fentanyl in 2022, with her trial pending. The DHS attributes this rise to the increased accessibility of information online and ease of obtaining these substances.