Kouri Richins, the Utah author charged with the aggravated murder of her husband Eric Richins, is now facing an
additional charge of attempted murder following new allegations of poisoning. Prosecutors claim that Kouri attempted to poison Eric on Valentine's Day 2022 by serving him a sandwich laced with drugs, leading to a severe allergic reaction.
According to charging documents released by the Washington County Attorney’s Office, Eric Richins became gravely ill after consuming the sandwich, experiencing hives and other adverse symptoms. In distress, he contacted friends and expressed suspicion that his wife, Kouri, had attempted to poison him.
"He almost lost me," Eric reportedly told one friend, describing the frightening ordeal after consuming the tainted sandwich. "You could hear the fear in his voice," the charging documents state.
The documents reveal that Kouri Richins had allegedly procured illicit fentanyl prior to the Valentine's Day incident and sought stronger doses following Eric's initial illness. Prosecutors suggest financial motives, pointing to life insurance policies valued at nearly $2 million taken out by Kouri on Eric without his knowledge.
Kouri Richins, who has yet to enter a plea but has denied all allegations, faces a litany of charges, including aggravated murder, mortgage fraud, insurance fraud, and forgery. Her attorney maintains her innocence, stating, "there is nothing in the documents that affects Kouri's approach to defending whatever charges the State levies against her."
A preliminary hearing date has been set for May 15 at the Third District Court.
Kouri Richins remains in custody awaiting trial, while the case continues to unfold, shedding light on the tragic and complex circumstances surrounding Eric Richins' death and the subsequent legal proceedings.
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