This is the Day 6 trial report of the murder trial (expected to last until 23rd March 2026) of Kouri Richins, accused of poisoning her husband Eric Richins with Fentanyl, designed to catch you up with the nucleus of the case efficiently!
Case Report
Factual background:
In March 2022, Eric Richins was found unresponsive in the bedroom of the home he shared with his wife, Kouri Richins, in Utah. A 911 call was placed in the early morning hours reporting that he was not breathing.
Emergency responders arrived and Eric was pronounced deceased.
A subsequent autopsy and toxicology testing determined that Eric died from acute fentanyl intoxication. The level of fentanyl detected was reported to be significantly elevated.
Following investigation, prosecutors charged Kouri Richins with aggravated murder and related financial crimes. The State alleges that she intentionally administered fentanyl to her husband. The prosecution has also referenced an alleged prior poisoning attempt weeks before his death.
Investigators examined:
- Financial records, including real estate debt and loans.
- Life insurance policies associated with Eric Richins.
- Digital communications and phone data.
- Statements made during the 911 call and at the scene.
The State has argued that financial pressure and marital instability provide motive.
The defense disputes that the State can prove how fentanyl was ingested, challenges aspects of the financial narrative, and maintains that the prosecution cannot establish intentional poisoning beyond reasonable doubt.
Kouri Richins has pleaded not guilty.
The case proceeds as a circumstantial homicide prosecution centered on toxicology evidence, financial documentation, and competing interpretations of marital and post-death conduct.
Criminal complaint:
CHARGES:
1. Criminal Homicide, Aggravated Murder (DV (Domestic Violence))
2. Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute (January 2022)
3. Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute (11th February 2022)
4. Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute (26th February 2022)
Victim(s): Eric Richins (Deceased)
Date Of Murder: 4th March 2022.
Killing Incident Reported: 4th March 2022.
Courthouse: Summit County, Utah Ohio
Officers of the court
Judge:
Attorneys
Prosecution:
ADA Bradley Bloodworth
ADA Lindsay Chervenak
Byron Burmester
Defence:
Kathryn Nester
Wendy Lewis
Alex Ramos
UT v. Kouri Richins – Day 6 Trial Summary
Day 6 centered on expert medical testimony and motive-related evidence. The prosecution presented the Chief Medical Examiner, who played a recorded phone call between himself and Kouri Richins in which fentanyl exposure, Quetiapine, and abuse were discussed. Cross-examination focused on the absence of hair follicle testing and limitations in long-term exposure analysis.
The day concluded with testimony from a home purchaser confirming the property was unoccupied during a relevant period, followed by testimony from Alison Wright regarding statements allegedly made by Kouri about her marriage, prenup, and concerns about Eric’s financial position and relationship with the children.
Witness-by-Witness Summaries
Witness #17 – Molly Crosswhite – Home Purchaser
Key summaries (Click arrow for more)
Connection to the case
Crosswhite purchased a home from Kouri Richins in 2022.
Summary Of Testimony
Molly Crosswhite testified that she purchased a property from Kouri Richins. Her testimony addressed the occupancy status of the property during the period surrounding Eric Richins’ death.
Key evidence introduced!
- Crosswhite testified she purchased a home from Kouri Richins
Witness #18 – Alison Wright – Acquaintance of Kouri Richins
Key summaries (Click arrow for more)
Connection to the case
Acquaintance of Kouri Richins and allegedly overheard a drug-related conversation.
Summary Of Testimony
Alison Wright testified about conversations she had with Kouri Richins during the early stages of Kouri’s relationship with Eric Richins. Her testimony addressed marital concerns, financial arrangements, and the existence of a prenuptial agreement.
Key evidence introduced!
- Wright testified that Kouri told her the marriage included a prenup agreement.
- Wright testified Kouri feared the children might favor Eric.
Full report below!
Sources:
LIVE: Poisoned Husband Murder Trial — UT v. Kouri Richins — Day Six, Law & Crime Trials, Youtube Channel, Livestream, Available Online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFK0qIYfBt4
