In Park City, Utah, a woman named Kouri Richins is facing legal proceedings after being accused of poisoning her husband with a lethal dose of fentanyl. The incident, which occurred in March 2022, has led to several felony charges against Richins for allegedly administering the deadly substance to her husband, Eric Richins, via a spiked cocktail.

Prosecutors have also brought forth additional charges against Kouri Richins, claiming that she had previously attempted to kill her husband by spiking his sandwich on Valentine’s Day. Despite the accusations, Richins has maintained her innocence.

A multiday hearing to assess the evidence against Kouri Richins and determine whether the case will proceed to trial is set to commence on Monday. The hearing was initially postponed in May to allow prosecutors ample time to present their evidence. Following the withdrawal of her private legal counsel, public defenders Wendy Lewis and Kathy Nester were appointed to represent Richins.

In the months leading up to her arrest, Kouri Richins self-published a children’s book titled “Are You with Me?” The book, depicting a father watching over his son with angel wings after passing away, could play a crucial role in the prosecution’s argument that Eric Richins’ death was a premeditated act with an elaborate cover-up.

Both the defense and prosecution intend to present witnesses and evidence to support their respective arguments during the hearing. Judge Richard Mrazik will ultimately decide whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial.

Potential witnesses in the case include relatives of the defendant and the victim, a housekeeper who allegedly provided Kouri Richins with the drugs, and friends of Eric Richins who may shed light on the events leading up to his poisoning.

The case also involves allegations of financial motives, with claims that Kouri Richins stood to gain financially from her husband’s death through life insurance policies and his estate. Apart from the murder and drug charges, Richins is facing accusations of mortgage fraud, forgery, and insurance fraud related to her husband’s passing.

In an unrelated incident, Kouri Richins was convicted of assaulting her sister-in-law following her husband’s death. Amidst a legal battle over Eric Richins’ estate, the case continues to unfold as both sides prepare to present their arguments in court.