The children’s author who wrote a book about grief after her husband’s death has now been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for killing him.
Kouri Richins, 35, received the formal sentence on Wednesday May 13, after a jury found her guilty last month.
Her husband, 39-year-old Eric Richins, was discovered dead at the family’s Utah home on March 4, 2022. Prosecutors said Richins had phoned police after claiming she found him “cold to the touch,” after she had earlier served him a Moscow Mule cocktail.
Investigators later concluded the drink had been mixed with fentanyl, a potent opioid, and that the drug caused Eric to fatally overdose.
Evidence presented in the case also indicated Eric had grown fearful that his wife was trying to poison him. He had reportedly begun changing his will following a series of alarming incidents that led him to believe he was in danger.
During last month’s proceedings, prosecutors argued Richins had planned the killing in advance. They said she was heavily in debt and had taken out $2 million in life insurance policies in her husband’s name without his knowledge, years before his death.
Across the 13-day trial, Richins did not testify, and her defense did not call any witnesses. At sentencing, however, she spoke at length—without directly discussing the killing—focusing instead on a message aimed at her children.
“The one thing I need you boys to know is that I did not abandon you,” Richins said, becoming emotional. “Regardless of what anyone tells you, I would never ever leave you boys. And I am so sorry that even for one second you think that I did.”
She continued by offering them guidance on relationships, adulthood, and the importance of being there for each other.
“Be like your dad,” she told them tearfully.
Her statement stretched on for about half an hour and touched on a variety of subjects. Only at the end did she reference the verdict, saying she would continue to fight it.
“I will appeal,” she said, “and fight the charges. No matter how long it takes.”
The jury had previously deliberated for roughly three hours before convicting her of murdering Eric Richins. She was also found guilty of attempted aggravated murder, two counts of insurance fraud, and one count of forgery.
Family statements submitted on behalf of the children reflected deep anger and urged the court to ensure she would never be freed.
After considering the convictions, 3rd District Court Judge Richard Mrazik imposed a life sentence with no chance of parole.
Richins has said she plans to appeal.