Kouri Richins Jury Trial | Day 1

In a court proceeding concerning the death of Eric Richens, the focus was on the events surrounding his death and the subsequent investigation. Eric's wife, Corey Richens, is accused of his murder, allegedly motivated by financial gain and a fresh start at life. The court heard testimonies from family members, including Eric's sister, Katie Richens Benson, and brother-in-law, Clint Benson, who discussed Eric's personality, his relationship with Corey, and financial disputes. The defense questioned the investigation's thoroughness, particularly regarding the handling of evidence and the investigation's focus on Corey. The court also discussed procedural matters, including the chain of custody for electronic evidence and the designation of victim representatives.

• The parties agreed on the exclusionary rule, allowing family members to be present for opening statements.
• After opening statements, certain family members will remain in the courtroom, while others may be excused during specific witness testimonies.
• The state will handle exhibits electronically, with paper copies available for the court.
• Slide presentations for openings were exchanged, with minor objections from both parties regarding photographs and exhibits.

"The parties have agreed that family members can be present for opening and that following opening, the defendant's mother, Lisa Corey, and the defendant's aunt, Dorene Corey, are going to be allowed to remain in the courtroom."

• This quote highlights the agreement between parties regarding family attendance during the trial.

• Objections were raised concerning certain photographs and slides not being pre-admitted as exhibits.
• Concerns about potential prejudice from images depicting exotic animal hunting were discussed.
• The state intends to introduce internet content accessed from the defendant's phone as circumstantial evidence of state of mind.

"The state is objecting to the two photographs at the bottom of defense exhibit 338 under 401 and beyond that 403."

• The state objects to photos due to potential prejudice and lack of probative value, suggesting they could unfairly sway jurors.

• Jurors were instructed on their roles, the burden of proof, and the importance of basing their decision solely on presented evidence.
• The prosecution must prove each element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, while the defendant does not have to prove anything.

"The prosecution has the burden of proving the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt."

• This underscores the prosecution's obligation to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, emphasizing the defendant's presumption of innocence.

• The defendant is accused of aggravated murder, attempted murder, insurance fraud, and forgery.
• Details of each charge, including circumstances and intent, were outlined for the jury.

"Count one, criminal homicide, aggravated murder... the defendant did intentionally or knowingly cause the death of another individual."

• The quote delineates the primary charge of aggravated murder, specifying the intentional or knowing causation of death.

• The prosecution outlined the timeline leading to Eric Richens' death, alleging Corey Richens poisoned him for financial gain.
• Evidence of financial distress, a fresh start motive, and relationships outside the marriage were presented.
• The prosecution highlighted text messages and financial records as evidence of motive and intent.

"The evidence will prove that Corey Richens murdered Eric for his money and to get a fresh start at life."

• This statement encapsulates the prosecution's theory of motive, focusing on financial gain and personal renewal.

• The defense argued the lack of direct evidence linking Corey Richens to the administration of fentanyl.
• Emphasized the couple's shared assets, successful business ventures, and familial love.
• Suggested alternative explanations for Eric's death, including accidental overdose or pre-existing conditions.

"What you will never hear after four years of investigation... is how that fentanyl got inside of him because there is zero evidence of that."

• The defense stresses the absence of conclusive evidence on how fentanyl was administered, challenging the prosecution's narrative.

• The trial will include testimonies from expert witnesses, family, and friends to establish the timeline and context of events.
• The defense plans to scrutinize the credibility of witnesses and the validity of evidence presented by the prosecution.

"You're going to hear Carmen testify now that Corey asked her for fentanyl, but what you're going to hear is that that was not Carmen's original story."

• This highlights the defense's strategy to question the reliability of witness testimonies, particularly changes in statements under pressure.

• Both parties concluded their opening statements by reiterating their main arguments and setting the stage for the presentation of evidence.
• The prosecution emphasized the circumstantial evidence of motive and opportunity, while the defense focused on reasonable doubt and alternative explanations.

"At the end of the trial, if you can still see both faces, that's reasonable doubt."

• The defense uses a metaphor to illustrate the concept of reasonable doubt, urging jurors to consider all perspectives before reaching a verdict.

• The law presumes the defendant is not guilty of the crime charged. The presumption of innocence persists unless the prosecution's evidence convinces the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty.
• The burden of proof is heavy on the state, as outlined by the constitution, which promises the defendant a fair trial by a jury of peers.
• The jury is asked to be courageous, pay attention, stand strong, and hold the government to its burden of proof.

"The law presumes the defendant is not guilty of the crime charged. She's innocent right now and you have to accept that to do your job."

• This quote emphasizes the fundamental principle of the presumption of innocence in the legal system.

"This burden, this is a heavy burden for the state. We know that. And our constitution gives them that burden."

• Highlights the constitutional requirement that the state must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

• The jury is reminded of their oath to truly try the issues between the plaintiff and the defendant and render a just verdict based on evidence and court instructions.
• A mistake was made regarding the jury oath, which was later corrected.

"Do each of you solemnly swear to truly try the issues pending between the plaintiff and the defendant and render a true and just verdict according to the evidence and the instructions of the court."

• This quote outlines the jury's commitment and responsibility in the trial process.

• Eugene F. Richens, father of the deceased Eric Richens, testifies about his son's character, family values, and involvement in family activities.
• He describes Eric as fun-loving, likable, and a devoted father who was actively involved in his children's lives and upbringing.
• Eugene recounts the night of Eric's death and the subsequent interactions with Corey Richens, including a misleading statement about the cause of death.

"Eric was their coach, but their father, but most important was their very very best friend."

• Emphasizes Eric's close relationship with his children and his role in their lives.

"She called me and said that she had just talked to the medical examiner and they had determined that he died of the same thing Linda did."

• This quote highlights a point of contention regarding the cause of Eric's death and Corey Richens' statements.

• Katie Richens Benson, sister of Eric Richens, testifies about her close relationship with Eric and his character as a devoted father and brother.
• She describes the morning of Eric's death, her observations of Corey Richens' behavior, and the family's discussions about funeral arrangements.
• Katie provides insight into the family dynamics and Eric's wishes regarding burial versus cremation.

"Eric was one of the most likable people... everyone thought they were his best friend."

• Illustrates Eric's personality and the impact he had on those around him.

"She told me she was going to sell it."

• Refers to Corey Richens' intentions to sell the family home shortly after Eric's death, which struck Katie as odd.

• The trust created by Eric Richens is discussed, with Katie as the trustee responsible for administering it according to Eric's wishes.
• The trust was intended to provide for both Corey Richens and the children, with specific provisions for the distribution of assets.

"The trust was actually to split into two separate trusts. One for his three boys who are the primary beneficiaries and then another trust for Corey."

• Explains the structure of the trust and its intended beneficiaries.

• The court discusses the management of witnesses who are on both the state's and the defense's lists, including the potential need to recall witnesses.
• The court addresses the exclusionary rule and the designation of victim representatives, allowing Katie Richens Benson to remain in the courtroom despite being a witness.

"The state prefers to present its case in an order that the state believes will provide a proper narrative to the jury without interruption."

• Reflects the state's approach to managing the presentation of evidence and witnesses.

"The legislature in crafting that language contemplated situations in which more than one victim representative would be appropriate."

• Justifies the court's decision to allow multiple victim representatives in the trial.

• The transcript discusses the suspicion surrounding Corey in relation to her brother-in-law's death.
• Corey's involvement is questioned due to financial discrepancies and her behavior following her husband's death.
• The investigation includes financial records, potential motives, and unusual actions taken by Corey.

"I let her know that Corey had stolen money from my brother and I thought she needed to know that."

• The speaker informed the officer about Corey's theft, indicating suspicion of her involvement in the brother's death.

"I had an overwhelming feeling come over me that I should let someone know."

• The speaker felt compelled to inform the authorities due to a strong suspicion about the circumstances of the death.

• Financial issues, including a $250,000 home equity loan taken without Eric's knowledge, are highlighted.
• Legal actions taken by Corey against the trust are discussed, as well as the hiring of experts for the estate's defense.

"I found a $250,000 home equity line of credit that was taken out against Eric's house."

• The discovery of an unauthorized loan contributed to the suspicion of financial misconduct by Corey.

"Cory did. Against me as trustee of the trust."

• Corey filed a lawsuit against the trustee, indicating ongoing legal disputes involving the estate.

• The management of Eric's estate and trust, including the role of trustees and the handling of assets, is discussed.
• The transfer of business assets and the implications of the prenuptial agreement are also considered.

"Because the house was not Corey's asset. It was in Eric's trust."

• The house was part of Eric's trust, indicating that Corey had no direct claim to it.

"Only if they divorced. If he died, then she would get the business while they were still married."

• The prenuptial agreement's terms regarding the business assets are clarified, affecting Corey's claims.

• The transcript details the communication and coordination with investigators, including sharing information and evidence.
• The involvement of private investigators and the provision of financial and personal information to authorities are emphasized.

"I did talk to the detectives. Yes."

• The speaker confirms regular communication with detectives following the death.

"Todd investigated for the truth. He made it clear that no matter what, we had to be comfortable with the truth."

• The private investigator's role in seeking the truth about Corey's involvement is highlighted.

• The emotional responses of family members to Eric's death and the subsequent investigation are explored.
• The impact on Corey's children and the family's efforts to manage the situation are discussed.

"Carter's response was somewhat just levelheaded. He knew at that point his dad was gone."

• Carter's reaction to his father's death is described, indicating his understanding of the situation.

"He just broke down and he was extremely upset."

• Ashton's emotional breakdown highlights the impact of the situation on the children.

• The measures taken to secure the family home after Corey's arrest are detailed.
• The installation of cameras and coordination with law enforcement for access are described.

"I arranged for a locksmith to come and change all the locks."

• The immediate security measures taken to secure the home following Corey's arrest.

"There was no entry."

• Assurance that no unauthorized entry occurred during the period of secured access.

• Mr. Gabler was allowed into the Willow Court home multiple times for investigation purposes.
• He conducted approximately 10 searches between April and May 2023.
• Mr. Gabler documented his activities, possibly recording audio during his investigations.
• There were Blink cameras in the home recording his actions, and recordings were provided to the prosecution upon subpoena.

"Todd documents everything that he does. He records it. I believe he uh he records sound, does everything when he when he does his own investigations."

• Mr. Gabler was meticulous in documenting and possibly recording his investigative activities.

"There were Blink cameras in the home though or cameras recording what he was doing, right?"

• Surveillance cameras recorded Mr. Gabler's activities in the home.

• Discussion on the chain of custody for evidence, including electronic devices and other items.
• The state argues that once evidence is in their possession, it is presumed to be handled properly unless there is evidence of bad faith or tampering.
• The defense seeks clarification on the handling of evidence post-seizure by crime scene technicians.

"The state's position is that the defense has not through either motion or profer made any affirmative showing of bad faith or actual tampering of these items."

• The state maintains that evidence handling is presumed proper unless proven otherwise.

• Ms. Richens arrived at the home between 3:30 and 4:00 AM, carrying her two daughters.
• She witnessed Corey shaking her hands, which she found unusual.
• Corey was observed explaining to her children about their father's passing.

"You came to the home as quickly as you could. So, about what time was that? It's between 3:30 and 4:00 around there."

• Ms. Richens arrived at the scene shortly after the incident.

"And ultimately, it was Corey herself who spoke to the boys and told them what had happened."

• Corey communicated the tragic event to her children.

• Deputy Nuen responded to the scene on March 4, 2022, and was wearing a body camera.
• His responsibilities included securing the scene, maintaining a crime scene log, and completing a death investigation checklist.
• He did not observe any illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia in the home.

"Respond to calls and report or document incidents, crimes."

• Deputy Nuen's role involved documenting and responding to incidents.

"I was made aware that they were in the residence, but I did not see them."

• Deputy Nuen did not see the children but was informed of their presence.

• Deputy Nuen was questioned about the handling of evidence and his observations at the scene.
• He confirmed the presence of a hydrocodone bottle but did not recall specific actions taken with it.
• There was a focus on the precise documentation of events and evidence.

"I did not specifically search for those. Not specifically. Please elaborate."

• Deputy Nuen did not specifically search for THC gummies or other substances.

"I passed the information to Deputy I mean Sergeant Debotello."

• Information was relayed to other officers for further investigation.

• The court addressed issues related to the chain of custody and the admissibility of evidence.
• Discussions involved the need for additional witnesses to establish the chain of custody.
• The court planned to address these issues further in subsequent sessions.

"The state's position is that the defense has not through either motion or profer made any affirmative showing of bad faith or actual tampering of these items."

• The state argued against the need for extensive witness testimony on evidence handling.

"We'll see you tomorrow morning at 8:30."

• The court session was adjourned with plans to continue discussions the following day.