Childrens’ author faces new charges related to husband’s death and financial crimes

Kouri Richins, known for writing a popular children’s book about dealing with grief after allegedly murdering her husband, has been charged with over two dozen new counts involving financial fraud connected to his death.

Prosecutors in Utah accuse Richins, 33, of taking out substantial high-interest loans, forging documents, and moving funds through shell companies in the months prior to her husband Eric Richins’ poisoning in 2022. It’s alleged she used a power of attorney to secure a $250,000 home equity line of credit on Eric’s former home without his knowledge.

Authorities believe she funneled this money into her real estate business, K. Richins Realty. The discovery of the secret line of credit, which Eric learned of in October 2020, reportedly caused tension between the couple. Following this, Eric sought legal advice to protect his and his children’s assets, but the court documents state the loan was not repaid at the time of his death.

Richins is also accused of borrowing millions through hard money loans, operating on an increasingly precarious financial footing, with debts surpassing almost $5 million shortly after her husband’s death. Court documents reveal her debts led to near-collapse by the end of 2021, with her planning to purchase a $2.9 million mansion on the day Eric died.

Before his death, Eric changed his will and life insurance policy, attempting to exclude Kouri, but she tried to claim the policy herself. The case remains complex, with family disputes over his estate and allegations that Richins stole funds from his business and bank accounts.

She faces multiple charges including money laundering, mortgage fraud, forgery, and issuing bad checks — all classified as felonies. Her attorneys suggest that these new fraud cases highlight weaknesses in the murder case, which is scheduled for jury selection in early 2026.

The prosecution’s accusations also include thefts totaling over $264,000 from her husband’s business and accounts. The trial and potential separate proceedings on the financial crimes are ongoing as the case continues to unfold.