Public Excluded from Closing Arguments in Kouri Richins Trial

Judge cites need to accommodate family members for high-profile murder case

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:03pm

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The public will not be allowed in the courthouse for closing arguments in the Kouri Richins trial, as the judge determined the space should be saved for family and friends of both Kouri and Eric Richins. Witness testimony abruptly ended on Thursday after the defense rested without calling any witnesses. Closing arguments will take place on Monday, with the judge instructing the jury before they begin deliberations.

Why it matters

The Kouri Richins case has garnered significant public attention, as Kouri was accused of killing her husband Eric by lacing his drink with fentanyl. The decision to exclude the public from the closing arguments is an unusual move, likely aimed at maintaining order and decorum during this highly emotional phase of the trial.

The details

Judge Richard Mrazik decided to close the courtroom to the public in order to allow more space for relatives and close friends of both Kouri and Eric Richins. Each side will be given 24 wristbands to distribute. Members of the media will still be allowed to attend, and the trial will continue to be livestreamed online.

  • Witness testimony abruptly ended on Thursday, March 14, 2026 after the defense rested without calling any witnesses.
  • Closing arguments are scheduled for Monday, March 18, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

The players

Kouri Richins

The defendant, accused of killing her husband Eric Richins by lacing his drink with fentanyl.

Eric Richins

Kouri Richins' late husband, whose death is the subject of the murder trial.

Judge Richard Mrazik

The judge presiding over the Kouri Richins trial, who made the decision to exclude the public from the closing arguments.

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What’s next

The jury is expected to begin deliberations after the closing arguments and judge's instructions on Monday, March 18, 2026.

The takeaway

The decision to exclude the public from the closing arguments in the high-profile Kouri Richins trial is an unusual move, likely aimed at maintaining order and decorum during this emotionally charged phase of the proceedings. The case has garnered significant public attention, and the judge's decision reflects the need to balance transparency with the needs of the involved parties and their families.