Full Breakdown
Two Disturbing Cases of Attempted Murder: Laura Docherty and Kouri Richins
3/18/2026, 10:32:43 PM
Laura Docherty's Attempted Murder of a Toddler
Laura Docherty, a 35-year-old woman from Glenrothes, Scotland, has been convicted of attempting to murder a toddler by administering adult medications, including Amitriptyline, Propranolol, and Dihydrocodeine. The abuse occurred between April 2021 and February 2023, resulting in the child suffering seizures and requiring resuscitation and ventilation. Judge Michael O'Grady KC described Docherty's actions as "utterly wicked" and "breathtakingly reckless," emphasizing her manipulative behavior and lack of remorse. The judge noted that the child's survival was due to the skill of medical professionals, not Docherty's actions.
During the trial, it was revealed that Docherty had a history of posting carefree TikTok videos while facing serious charges, showcasing a "pathological desire for attention." The court has ordered a risk assessment report to determine the possibility of an Order for Lifelong Restriction (OLR), which would impose a minimum jail term and lifelong supervision if released. The case is set to be reviewed again on June 16.
Kouri Richins Convicted of Murdering Her Husband
In a separate case, Kouri Richins, a 35-year-old Utah woman, was found guilty of aggravated murder for poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, with fentanyl in March 2022. Prosecutors argued that Richins, who was $4.5 million in debt, believed she would inherit her husband's estate worth over $4 million. Evidence presented during the trial included text messages indicating her desire to leave her husband while retaining his wealth, as well as internet searches related to lethal doses of fentanyl.
Richins was also charged with attempted murder for an earlier incident where she allegedly poisoned her husband with a fentanyl-laced sandwich. The prosecution highlighted her actions as premeditated, pointing to her self-published children's book about grief, which they argued was an attempt to cover up her crime. Richins has pleaded not guilty, and her defense claimed that the prosecution's evidence was insufficient, arguing that the case relied on speculation.
Official Statements & Responses
Judge O'Grady expressed deep concern over Docherty's lack of insight and remorse, stating, "Whatever your own trials and tribulations... what you did to her was utterly wicked." In Richins' case, Summit County prosecutor Brad Bloodworth emphasized that she "wanted to leave Eric Richins but did not want to leave his money," framing her actions as motivated by financial gain.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of both cases have pointed to the complexities of the defendants' backgrounds. Docherty's defense highlighted her significant childhood trauma, while Richins' attorneys argued that the prosecution's case was built on circumstantial evidence and speculation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While both cases involve serious allegations of attempted murder, the circumstances and motivations behind each crime differ significantly. Docherty's actions were characterized by a direct and reckless endangerment of a child, while Richins' case involves financial motives and alleged premeditation.
What's Next
Both cases are set for further proceedings, with Docherty's sentencing scheduled for June 16 and Richins facing a potential life sentence following her conviction. The outcomes of these cases will likely have lasting implications for the victims' families and the broader community.
