Overview
- Defense attorneys filed a motion alleging members of the prosecution team threatened or harassed witnesses and asking the court to compel production of all communications with them.
- The filing includes a witness’s screenshots quoting lead detective Jeff O’Driscoll warning of arrest, jail, and returning with a “catch pole for the dog” after she declined pretrial prep.
- A second witness’s messages quote investigator Travis Hopper stating that previously granted immunity was conditional and could be at risk if the witness declined further cooperation.
- Deputy Summit County attorney Margaret Olsen said prosecutors will address the allegations through the court and declined public comment with the trial approaching.
- Richins faces aggravated murder, attempted aggravated murder, and related financial charges in her husband’s 2022 death, with trial set to begin Feb. 23 before Judge Richard Mrazik.