Kouri Richins, a 35-year-old Utah author, was convicted in March of aggravated murder and four other felonies for poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, with fentanyl in 2022. Prosecutors allege she laced his cocktail with five times the lethal dose at their home near Park City. Richins, who self-published a children’s book about coping with a father’s death before her arrest, faces sentencing on what would have been her husband’s 44th birthday.
Children’s Testimony
Richins’ three sons, now ages 13, 11, and 9, submitted statements ahead of sentencing, expressing fear that their mother would harm them if released. The oldest son said he does not miss her and believes she would “come after” him and his brothers. Prosecutors cited sealed Utah Division of Child and Family Services records alleging emotional and physical abuse by Richins after her husband’s death.
Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutors seek life without parole, citing Richins’ financial motives. She was reportedly millions in debt, planning a future with another man, and had taken out life insurance policies on her husband without his knowledge. They allege she falsely believed she would inherit his $4 million estate.
Defense Silence
Richins’ attorneys declined to comment before sentencing. Her aggravated murder conviction carries a sentence of 25 years to life or life without parole. Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty.