Ohio Woman Sentenced to Life for Fentanyl Overdose Killings

Rebecca Auborn pleaded guilty to killing 4 men she met for sex and attempting to overdose another man

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 36-year-old Ohio woman named Rebecca Auborn was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences with the possibility of parole after 60 years for using fentanyl doses to kill four men she was trying to rob. Auborn initially pleaded not guilty but changed her plea late last year. She was also convicted of one count of felonious assault for an attempted overdose of another man.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing opioid crisis in the U.S. and the devastating impact of fentanyl overdoses, especially when used as a weapon to commit violent crimes. It also raises concerns about the vulnerability of those seeking sex work and the need for greater support and protections for this community.

The details

According to the Ohio Attorney General, Auborn met the men for sex before fatally drugging them with fentanyl in an attempt to steal their belongings. The crimes all took place in 2022 and 2023. Auborn was indicted in 2023 following an investigation by the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, which received information that a sex worker was dosing men with intent to steal from them.

  • Auborn was indicted in 2023 following the accusations.
  • The crimes all happened in 2022 and 2023.

The players

Rebecca Auborn

A 36-year-old woman from Columbus, Ohio who pleaded guilty to killing 4 men she met for sex and attempting to overdose another man.

David Yost

The Ohio Attorney General who stated that the sentence reflects Auborn's "disregard for life and the callousness" of her crimes.

Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force

The law enforcement task force that received information about a sex worker dosing men and initiated the investigation that led to Auborn's indictment.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This sentence reflects the defendant's disregard for life and the callousness not only to kill, but to do it repeatedly. My heart goes out to the families who lost a loved one – I pray that this measure of justice brings them closure and peace.”

— David Yost, Ohio Attorney General (ksgf.com)

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the urgent need to address the opioid crisis and provide greater support and protections for vulnerable communities, including those involved in sex work. It underscores the devastating human toll of fentanyl overdoses and the importance of robust law enforcement efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.