Kouri Richins, a Utah mother on trial in Summit County for her husband, Eric Richins’ 2023 death, allegedly murdered him for financial gain.
Summit County Prosecutor Brad Bloodworth stated Monday that Richins, 35, had been in $4.5 million debt. She allegedly took measures to secure financial freedom by forging Eric’s signature on life insurance policies worth nearly $2 million.
Bloodworth said Richins also “wrongfully believed” that she would inherit over $4 million from Eric’s estate, Court TV reports.
Richins is facing more than charges, including, in part:
- Aggravated murder
- Attempted aggravated murder
- Insurance fraud
- Forgery
As CrimeOnline previously reported, in May 2023, Richins allegedly spiked Eric’s Moscow Mule drink with “illicit” fentanyl that had been over five times the legal limit.
Richins, a mother of three, later self-published a children’s book titled “Are You with Me?” about a father with angel wings watching over his young son.
Additional charges accused her of a previous attempt to kill Eric by spiking his sandwich on Valentine’s Day 2022.
“The evidence will prove that Kouri Richins murdered Eric for his money and to get a fresh start at life,” Bloodworth said. “More than anything, she wanted his money to perpetuate her facade of privilege, affluence and success.”
Richins had also been having an affair with a man identified as Robert Josh Grossman, the prosecution said.
Defense lawyer Kathryn Nester argued that Eric possibly overdosed due to his own painkiller addiction, adding that he had Lyme disease.
Body cam footage from Summit County deputies, however, showed Richins telling authorities that Eric had no historyof drug use.
The defense also argued that investigators never properly testing evidence on the drink’s cup.
The trial continues Tuesday with testimonry from first responders and officers.
Carmen Lauber, the Richins’ housekeeper, is also expected to testify about how she sold Kouri Richins fentanyl on several occasions.
Richins has pleaded not guilty. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Kouri and Eric Richins/Facebook]