Kouri Richins, a mother of three from Utah, faces accusations of murdering her husband, Eric Richins, allegedly by administering a fatal dose of fentanyl in March 2022. In addition to this, she is known as the author of a children’s book centered on coping with grief, a work she dedicated to her deceased spouse. However, questions arise regarding Kouri Richins’ financial standing and potential gains following her husband’s demise.
Life Insurance Policies
According to legal records, Kouri Richins procured no less than four life insurance policies for her husband between 2015 and 2017, with a cumulative value of nearly $2 million. These policies were executed without Eric Richins’ knowledge, with Kouri Richins designated as the sole beneficiary. However, Eric Richins eventually became aware of his wife’s alleged misappropriation of funds from him and his business. Consequently, in October 2020, he sought legal counsel for divorce proceedings and estate planning, modifying his will, establishing a living trust, and transferring his assets, including a $500,000 life insurance policy, to said trust, appointing his sister as the trustee.
Suspicions arose regarding potential poisoning attempts by Kouri Richins, leading Eric Richins to inform his family of his concerns regarding her involvement if any harm were to befall him. Subsequently, three days after acquiring fentanyl from an illicit source, Kouri Richins allegedly laced her husband’s drink with the substance and subsequently contacted law enforcement to report his passing. She asserted that she had prepared a mixed vodka drink for him before retiring to bed with one of their children. Following an examination by a medical professional, it was determined that Eric Richins had been exposed to fentanyl in quantities surpassing five times the lethal threshold.
Book Sales and Media Appearances
A year following her husband’s demise, Kouri Richins authored and released a children’s book titled “Are You With Me?”, aimed at assisting youngsters in managing the loss of a beloved individual. In a heartfelt dedication, she honored her late husband, referring to him as “my amazing husband and a wonderful father”. Engaging in promotional efforts, Kouri Richins showcased the book on local television and various social media platforms, receiving commendations from select readers. Available for purchase on Amazon at $9.99, the book has garnered sales exceeding 1,000 copies as of November 2023.
Additionally, Kouri Richins made appearances on numerous podcasts and radio broadcasts, sharing insights into her book and recounting her journey following her husband’s passing. Presenting herself as a grieving widow and devoted mother, she garnered empathy and encouragement from sympathetic listeners. Furthermore, she established a website and blog, utilizing these platforms to express her sentiments surrounding her husband’s demise and the publication of her book.
Legal Fees and Bail
On May 8, 2023, Kouri Richins faced arrest and was charged with murder and drug possession. Pleading not guilty, she enlisted the services of defense attorney Clayton Simms, renowned for his representation of high-profile clients. Contesting the charges, she filed a motion to dismiss the case, contending that the evidence was insufficient and largely circumstantial. However, the judge dismissed her motion, ordering her to be detained in jail without bail, deeming her a “substantial danger” to society. In the event of a conviction, she could potentially face a prison sentence ranging from 15 years to life.
Kouri Richins has expended a considerable sum on legal fees, estimated at approximately $200,000. Additionally, she is indebted to her late husband’s family, who initiated legal action against her, alleging fraud and breach of fiduciary duty. The family accused her of embezzling funds from Eric Richins’ estate and business and attempting to claim his life insurance policy. Furthermore, they pursued custody of the couple’s three children, who presently reside under the care of Kouri Richins’ parents.
Conclusion
Kouri Richins has faced significant scrutiny, accused of allegedly murdering her husband for financial motives. Furthermore, criticism has arisen regarding her utilization of his demise for personal gain, notably through her authorship of a grief-themed book and media appearances. Evaluating her net worth proves challenging, given the complex interplay of assets and liabilities stemming from her husband’s passing. Yet, the available data suggests that she may not possess substantial wealth, and it’s plausible that she has incurred more expenses than gains resulting from her husband’s demise. Presently, she awaits trial, slated to commence in January 2024.
