Utah Mom Found Guilty of Murdering Husband with Fentanyl

A Utah woman, Kouri Richins, has been convicted of aggravated murder for allegedly poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, with a lethal dose of fentanyl in March 2022. A Summit County jury found her guilty on all five charges after deliberating for approximately three hours. The sentencing is set for May 13.

Prosecutors contended that Richins, a mother of three and real estate agent, was driven by significant financial debts from her floundering home-flipping business. They alleged she sought a "fresh start" and financial benefit from her husband's death.

During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Richins purchased illicit fentanyl pills shortly before her husband's death, even inquiring about the "Michael Jackson drug." She was also charged with attempted aggravated murder for allegedly lacing his sandwich with fentanyl two weeks prior in a failed attempt.

The defense argued the state's case was "sloppy" and "driven by bias," emphasizing a lack of direct proof and suggesting bias in witness testimony. They also raised questions about the investigation's focus and potential alternative causes for Eric Richins' death.

Richins maintained her innocence throughout the legal proceedings. Her husband was found dead in bed, with an autopsy revealing fentanyl intoxication at approximately five times the lethal dosage. The medical examiner confirmed the fentanyl was illicit.

Evidence also indicated alleged insurance fraud and forgery, with prosecutors claiming Richins took out a $100,000 policy on her husband's life using his forged signature. She had promoted a children's book about grief following his death.