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Utah Judge Sentences Kouri Richins to Life Without Parole

5/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Judge Richard Mrazik sentenced Kouri Richins to life without parole for aggravated murder of her husband Eric Richins, Park City, Utah.
He said the crimes made her too dangerous to release.
She also received consecutive five-to-life terms for attempted murder, terms for insurance-fraud counts, and up to five years for forgery.
Children and relatives testified they feared for their safety if she were ever released, influencing the judge’s decision.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 South Carolina jurors sentenced Susan Smith to life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 30 years for killing her two sons. In 2024 Utah Judge Richard Mrazik gave Kouri Richins life without parole for murder and insurance fraud. The cases have spurred Utah lawmakers to review parole statutes, while data show one in 39 Black women in prison serve life without parole.

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Story summary

Judge Richard Mrazik sentenced Kouri Richins to life without parole for aggravated murder of her husband Eric Richins, Park City, Utah.
He said the crimes made her too dangerous to release.
She also received consecutive five-to-life terms for attempted murder, terms for insurance-fraud counts, and up to five years for forgery.
Children and relatives testified they feared for their safety if she were ever released, influencing the judge’s decision.

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