“The People v. Kouri Richins”: 48 Hours Reports on Eric Richins Homicide March 1 2025

The case of Kouri Richins captivated the nation when the Utah mother of three was accused of poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, and later writing a children’s book about grief. The 48 Hours episode, The People v. Kouri Richins, revisits the shocking details, uncovering the evidence that led to her arrest and the legal battles that continue to unfold.

The Death of Eric Richins

On March 4, 2022, Kouri Richins called 911, reporting that she had found her husband, Eric Richins, unresponsive in their Kamas, Utah, home. According to her account, they had been celebrating her latest real estate deal the night before, and she had prepared him a Moscow Mule before going to sleep in one of their children’s bedrooms. When she returned to their bed around 3 a.m., Eric was cold to the touch.

Emergency responders found Eric deceased at the scene. An autopsy later confirmed that he had died from fentanyl poisoning, with a concentration in his system that was five times the lethal dose. The medical examiner determined that the fentanyl was not pharmaceutical-grade, suggesting it was illicitly obtained.

Suspicion and Financial Motive

Following Eric’s death, authorities began to examine the couple’s financial situation. Prosecutors alleged that Kouri Richins had been in significant financial distress, with mounting debt from her real estate ventures. Records indicated she had taken out a life insurance policy on Eric worth nearly $2 million without his knowledge. In addition, she had allegedly forged his signature on financial documents, including a home equity line of credit.

Eric had reportedly become aware of financial discrepancies and had taken steps to protect his assets. In 2020, he quietly transferred his estate into a living trust managed by his sister, effectively preventing Kouri from inheriting his wealth. Prosecutors argue this decision provided her with a clear financial motive to ensure Eric’s death.

The Alleged Murder Plot

Investigators uncovered text messages between Kouri and an alleged drug dealer, identified in court documents as “C.L.,” suggesting she had been seeking fentanyl in the months leading up to Eric’s death. According to testimony, Kouri had first purchased fentanyl pills in January 2022.

Prosecutors further claim that Eric had experienced an earlier poisoning attempt. On February 14, 2022, Kouri allegedly laced a sandwich with fentanyl, which left Eric severely ill. He reportedly told a friend afterward that he suspected his wife had tried to poison him. Just weeks later, on March 3, 2022, Kouri allegedly succeeded in administering a fatal dose of fentanyl through the Moscow Mule cocktail.

The Children’s Book and Public Appearances

In a bizarre turn of events, a year after Eric’s death, Kouri published a children’s book titled Are You With Me?, which aimed to help children cope with the loss of a parent. She promoted the book on television, speaking about grief and how she had helped her children through the tragic loss of their father.

Her media appearances drew attention, and shortly after promoting the book, she was arrested on May 8, 2023. Authorities charged her with aggravated murder and multiple counts of drug distribution.

Legal Battles and Defense Arguments

Kouri Richins maintains her innocence. Her defense team argues that the prosecution’s case is based on circumstantial evidence and unreliable testimony. They claim there is no direct proof that Kouri administered the fentanyl to Eric.

Additionally, they have raised concerns about potential misconduct by investigators, including allegations that law enforcement improperly obtained evidence. Her attorneys have also questioned the credibility of the drug dealer, C.L., who has a criminal history and was reportedly cooperating with prosecutors in exchange for leniency on other charges.

Despite these challenges, the prosecution insists that the evidence overwhelmingly points to premeditated murder. A judge denied Kouri’s request for bail, citing the severity of the charges and the risk of flight.

Ongoing Trial and Possible Sentencing

As of early 2025, Kouri Richins remains in custody, awaiting trial. Jury selection has been a contentious issue, with defense attorneys requesting a venue change due to extensive media coverage. The trial, scheduled to begin in April 2025, is expected to last several weeks.

If convicted, Kouri faces life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case has drawn national attention, not only for the shocking allegations but also for the broader discussion on financial fraud, opioid-related deaths, and the lengths to which some individuals may go to secure financial stability.

Conclusion

The 48 Hours special The People v. Kouri Richins delves into the tragic and complex story of a family torn apart by greed, deception, and an alleged murder plot. What began as a tale of a grieving widow seeking to help others cope with loss has become one of the most chilling true crime cases in recent years. As the trial moves forward, the nation waits to see whether the evidence will confirm the prosecution’s claims or if Kouri Richins can convince a jury of her innocence.