Hey everyone, if you’ve been following true crime stories lately, the case of Kouri Richins has been impossible to ignore. The Utah mom and real estate pro turned children’s book author is currently on trial for the alleged murder of her husband, Eric Richins, back in 2022. Prosecutors claim she poisoned him with a massive dose of fentanyl in a cocktail, all while allegedly planning a new life with someone else. That “someone else”? Her reported boyfriend at the time, who has become a key figure in the courtroom drama unfolding right now in Park City.
As of today (February 24, 2026), the trial is in its early days with opening statements delivered and witnesses taking the stand. Let’s break down what we know about Kouri Richins’ boyfriend situation in a clear, straightforward way—no sensationalism, just the facts making headlines.
Table of Contents
The Alleged Affair That Shocked Everyone
Court documents and prosecutor statements paint a picture of Kouri being deeply unhappy in her marriage. Prosecutors say she was involved in an extramarital relationship with a man described as her handyman or “paramour.” His name has come up in trial coverage as Robert Josh Grossmann (sometimes referred to as Josh Grossman).
According to opening statements from prosecutor Bradley Bloodworth, Kouri and this man exchanged loving texts, including one on the night of Eric’s death where she reportedly replied “Love you” with a kissing emoji after receiving a photo of two people kissing. They allegedly discussed a future together, with messages like her asking if he’d marry her if she were divorced.
The relationship reportedly wasn’t just emotional—it was physical, with claims it continued before and after Eric’s death. Prosecutors even point to a booked all-inclusive vacation to Secrets St. Martin’s Resort and Spa in the Caribbean, planned for a month after Eric’s passing, supposedly for Kouri and her boyfriend.
Key Evidence Tied to the Boyfriend in the Trial
The boyfriend angle is central to the prosecution’s motive theory: that Kouri wanted financial freedom and a new start. Here’s a quick table summarizing the main points prosecutors have highlighted so far:
| Aspect | Details | Source/Reference in Trial |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Robert Josh Grossmann (alleged handyman/lover) | Court affidavits & openings |
| Relationship Timeline | Extramarital affair before and after Eric’s death (March 2022) | Prosecutor statements |
| Key Texts | “Love you” reply on night of death; marriage hypotheticals pre-death | Text messages presented |
| Planned Vacation | 5-night Caribbean trip booked for post-death period | Booking records |
| Other Communications | Texts wishing husband “would go away” for a “perfect” life | Evidence from investigation |
| Current Status | Granted immunity by prosecutors; expected to testify or referenced | Affidavits & trial updates |
This table pulls together the core elements prosecutors are using to argue intent and planning.
How the Defense Is Responding
Kouri’s legal team has pushed back hard. They’ve portrayed the marriage as having ups and downs (including counseling), but insisted Eric’s death was not intentional—possibly tied to his own drug dependency issues. The defense emphasizes reasonable doubt, unanswered questions about evidence like the fentanyl source, and questions the reliability of witnesses (including the housekeeper who allegedly supplied drugs).
They haven’t denied the existence of communications with another man entirely, but the focus is on framing the case as circumstantial rather than proof of murder. Kouri has maintained her innocence since her 2023 arrest, and her family has long supported that view.
Wrapping It Up: Why This Matters Right Now
As the trial continues through late March 2026, the boyfriend story remains one of the most talked-about elements—it’s the personal side of a case that’s already packed with twists like the children’s grief book (“Are You With Me?”) Kouri published afterward. Whether it’s motive, coincidence, or something else entirely, only the jury will decide.
This story is developing fast with daily courtroom updates, so things could shift. For now, it’s a stark reminder of how private relationships can end up under intense public scrutiny in high-stakes cases. What do you think—does the evidence add up, or is there more to uncover? Stay tuned, and feel free to share your thoughts below.
Updated: February 24, 2026, 08:22 AM IST