Did Kouri Richins, a mother from Utah, poison her husband and then author a children’s book on helping kids navigate grief?

Friends and family were shocked when Kouri Richins was arrested in connection with the death of her husband, Eric, at their home in Kamas, Utah in 2022. Kouri, a successful real estate business owner, was known to be loving mother and wife who had recently written a children’s book to help her sons cope with Eric’s death. The real story of their marriage, which started with a prenuptial agreement, took a dark turn with allegations of financial mismanagement and arguments over a large purchase.

In April 2019, Kouri Richins started her real estate business, which quickly became successful. However, prosecutors alleged that she began stealing from Eric’s accounts in 2019. The situation escalated when Eric discovered the misappropriation of funds and created a trust that excluded Kouri. Despite her family’s claims that Eric knew about their finances, the trust was meant to protect Eric’s assets and their sons’ inheritance. The situation further deteriorated when Kouri was accused of asking her housekeeper to procure drugs for her.

On Feb. 14, 2022, Eric Richins fell ill shortly after Kouri gave him a sandwich, leading him to suspect he had been poisoned. A few weeks later, Kouri was accused of asking for stronger drugs from her housekeeper. Eric’s death on March 4, 2022, was initially believed to be natural, but an autopsy later revealed that he had died from a fentanyl overdose. Kouri was arrested on May 8, 2023, and charged with criminal homicide and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Kouri Richins maintained her innocence and presented evidence to support her claim, including unproven witness tampering allegations. A letter found in her jail cell raised suspicions of manipulating her brother’s testimony to include a connection between Eric and drugs. Despite the controversy surrounding the case, Kouri’s trial date has not been set, and her family awaits the opportunity to present their version of events and seek justice for their loved one.

The case of Kouri Richins highlights the complexities of relationships, financial disputes, and allegations of foul play. The tragic death of Eric Richins, allegedly caused by his wife, has left their families and the community in shock and disbelief. As the trial unfolds, both sides will continue to seek the truth and closure in a case that has gripped the attention of many.