Full Breakdown
Iowa Couple Charged in Drug-Laced Lasagna Miscarriage Attempt
3/28/2026, 9:54:05 PM
Overview of the Incident
In December 2025, Matthew Uthoff, 35, and his wife, Amber Dena Snow, 36, both from Decorah, Iowa, were accused of attempting to induce a miscarriage in a pregnant woman by serving her lasagna laced with oxycodone. The couple faces multiple charges, including delivery of a controlled substance and intentionally terminating a human pregnancy without the victim's knowledge or consent. Uthoff was arrested on March 26, 2026, while Snow had been arrested earlier on March 10.
Details of the Allegation
According to court documents, Uthoff and Snow conspired to deliver the drugged lasagna to a family member of Snow's, who was unaware of the plot. The lasagna was reportedly prepared in the presence of Snow's child, who objected to the plan. Investigators discovered evidence of the conspiracy through text messages and internet searches on Snow's phone. A laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of oxycodone in the lasagna.
Legal Charges
Both Uthoff and Snow are charged with several felonies, including:
- Class C Felony for delivering a controlled substance (oxycodone).
- Class D Felony for intentionally terminating a human pregnancy without consent.
- Aggravated misdemeanor for child endangerment.
- Two counts of Class D Felony for administering harmful substances to both an adult and a juvenile.
Uthoff is being held on a $100,000 cash bond, while Snow is also held on the same amount. Both individuals have been issued no-contact orders from the alleged victim.
Official Statements & Responses
The Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation in January 2026 after receiving a tip about the lasagna. The sheriff's office confirmed that the pregnant woman was unharmed and that her fetus survived the incident. The investigation revealed that the couple had discussed their intentions in various communications.
Criticism & Opposition
The case has raised significant ethical concerns regarding the actions of Uthoff and Snow, particularly the implications of attempting to terminate a pregnancy without consent. Critics have highlighted the potential psychological and physical harm inflicted on the victim and the child present during the incident.
What's Next
Amber Snow is scheduled for a bond reduction hearing on March 31, 2026, and her arraignment is set for April 7. No court dates have been announced for Uthoff as of yet.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The lasagna was tested by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory, where it was confirmed that the dish was laced with oxycodone.” — Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office
- “The victim reportedly had no knowledge of the attempt to terminate her pregnancy.” — Des Moines Register
- “Investigators allegedly found evidence of the plot by reviewing text messages between Uthoff and Snow and their internet search histories.” — CBS 2 Iowa
This case continues to develop as legal proceedings unfold, drawing attention to the serious implications of the couple's actions.
