A Utah woman who is accused of poisoning her husband and then writing a children’s book about coping with grief is set to appear in court for a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for a trial.
Kouri Richins, 33, is facing felony charges for allegedly giving her husband, Eric Richins, a lethal dose of fentanyl in March 2022 at their home near Park City. Prosecutors claim she spiked his drink with the synthetic opioid.
She also allegedly attempted to poison him with a spiked sandwich on Valentine’s Day. In the months leading up to her arrest, she self-published a children’s book called “Are You with Me?” about a father watching over his son after passing away.
The book could be a key piece of evidence for prosecutors in proving the murder was premeditated. Both the defense and prosecution will present witnesses and evidence during the hearing.
Judge Richard Mrazik will decide if there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial after the hearing. Witnesses may include family members, a housekeeper who sold drugs to Kouri Richins, and friends of Eric Richins.
Defense attorney Skye Lazaro argues that the evidence against her client is circumstantial. She suggests that witnesses may have ulterior motives, such as seeking leniency or bias against Kouri Richins.
Kouri Richins is also facing charges related to mortgage fraud, forgery, and insurance fraud for allegedly forging documents and making fraudulent claims after her husband’s death.
