KAMAS, Utah — A mother accused of murdering her husband with a fentanyl-laced cocktail is set to stand trial after jury selection began on Tuesday. Kouri Richins, 35, faces charges related to the alleged poisoning of her spouse, Eric Richins, 39, on March 3, 2022.

Authorities allege that Kouri administered a lethal dose of the synthetic opioid to her husband, having previously attempted to poison him weeks before with fentanyl hidden in a sandwich. Prosecutors assert that financial motives underpinned her actions, citing the dire state of her real estate business and a substantial life insurance policy worth $2 million tied to Eric’s name, alongside claims of an affair with a handyman.

Following Eric’s death, Kouri authored a children’s book titled “Are You With Me?” that discusses grief and was reportedly inspired by her family’s emotional journey after the tragedy. The book was promoted on a local television program shortly before her arrest in May 2023, in which she expressed sorrow over her husband’s passing and discussed the book’s dedication to him as a loving father.

Court documents indicate that Kouri crafted the lethal drink under the pretense of celebrating a real estate sale. After delivering the drink, she claimed to have fallen asleep in her child’s room, returning later to find Eric unresponsive. Prosecutors argue that Kouri’s version of events is implausible and part of an elaborate scheme.

Evidence also suggests that Kouri was in communication with her alleged lover, Robert Grossman, during the period leading up to Eric’s death. Prosecutors presented texts indicating her desire for Eric to “just go away,” reinforcing claims of premeditated intent.

Kouri not only sought to make herself the beneficiary of her husband’s life insurance policy but also took steps to outmaneuver him when he became aware of her actions. Eric modified his will to remove her as a beneficiary after he discovered her alleged efforts to secure financial gain.

Facing charges including aggravated murder, attempted murder, and drug possession, Kouri has pleaded not guilty. She has remained incarcerated since her arrest.

As jury selection continues, this high-profile case is expected to unfold over the coming weeks, with the trial anticipated to last up to five weeks and opening statements scheduled for February 23. The jury’s decisions will weigh heavily on the complex interplay of love, betrayal, and the consequences of alleged criminal behavior.