Utah Jury Convicts Kouri Richins of Husband's Murder

In February 2026, a Summit County jury convicted Kouri Richins of murdering her husband Eric Richins, who died on March 4, 2022, after ingesting a lethal dose of fentanyl. Chief prosecutor Brad Bloodworth told the court the state would prove Kouri Richins killed Eric for financial gain. Eric owned a contracting business; Kouri worked as a real estate agent.

Prosecutors played the 911 call Kouri made the night Eric died. A digital forensic analyst testified that phone sensor data showed she held the receiver to her ear instead of placing the call on speakerphone for CPR instructions. Juror Laura said the data indicated Kouri was not performing chest compressions as described.

Juror Eric noted the compressions heard on the recording appeared minimal. Text messages Kouri sent to a friend that night stated she had pumped Eric's chest and screamed for him to return to life. Jurors said the physical evidence did not match those statements.

Body-camera footage showed Kouri holding her face with both hands while speaking with a deputy. Jurors contrasted her demeanor with that of Eric's sister Katie Richins Benson, who arrived visibly distraught and immediately asked about the children. Katie Richins Benson testified that hours after Eric's death, Kouri discussed selling their home and closing on another property.

Prosecutors also introduced cellphone data showing GIFs accessed that morning. A handwritten note recovered from a kitchen cabinet listed steps that included preparing a drink for Eric in bed, according to the prosecution.

At sentencing, Kouri Richins maintained her innocence.

Greg Hall, a friend and former colleague, told CBS News she had expected an acquittal because she believed she had not committed the crime. Greg Skordas, spokesperson for Eric Richins' family, said Eric had previously warned relatives to watch out for Kouri.