Texas Woman Charged for Allegedly Assisting Ex-Husband's Suicide

Sarah Regmund accused of helping paralyzed Joseph Cheffo end his life with guidance from 'right to die' nonprofit

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A Texas woman named Sarah Regmund, 46, was arrested after allegedly assisting in the suicide of her paralyzed ex-husband, Joseph Cheffo. Regmund told police she had been in contact with the Final Exit Network, a 'right to die' organization, which provided instructions on how Cheffo could take his own life. Cheffo had become severely disabled after experiencing debilitating side effects from a prescribed antibiotic drug in 2023.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex ethical and legal issues surrounding assisted suicide, which is illegal in Texas. It also raises questions about the role of advocacy groups like the Final Exit Network and whether their guidance can lead to unlawful actions. The story underscores the challenges faced by those with severe disabilities and chronic illnesses, and the difficult decisions their loved ones may confront.

The details

According to police reports, Regmund told authorities that she knew Cheffo was planning to kill himself and did not want to violate his wishes. Investigators found rolls of blue painter's tape, strands of Cheffo's grey hair, a typed suicide note, his passport, and a copy of the book 'Final Exit' in the room where Cheffo died. Regmund admitted to moving a tank of compressed gas into the room, which was connected to a plastic bag taped over Cheffo's head. She claimed the Final Exit Network representatives had shown Cheffo how to end his life the same day he died.

  • On February 13, 2026, Joseph Cheffo was found dead in his home in Odessa, Texas.
  • On the same day, Sarah Regmund was arrested and charged in connection with aiding in Cheffo's suicide.

The players

Sarah Regmund

A 46-year-old woman who was the ex-wife and primary caretaker of Joseph Cheffo. She was arrested for allegedly assisting in Cheffo's suicide.

Joseph Cheffo

A former teacher with a passion for fitness whose life was turned upside down in 2023 after taking a prescribed antibacterial drug that left him paralyzed and in chronic pain.

Final Exit Network

A 'right to die' nonprofit organization that Regmund claimed provided instructions to Cheffo on how he could take his own life.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Sarah Regmund out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex ethical and legal issues surrounding assisted suicide, the challenges faced by those with severe disabilities, and the potential dangers of advocacy groups providing guidance on end-of-life decisions, especially in states where such practices are illegal.