Throughout the trial, Richins chose not to testify in her own defense.
However, during Wednesday’s sentencing hearing, she addressed the courtroom for around 30 minutes, speaking mostly to her three children.
“I know today you don’t want to speak to me and you hate me. That’s OK. When you are ready, I will be here for you,” she reportedly said while fighting back tears.
Despite her emotional statement, the judge ultimately ruled that she would spend the rest of her life behind bars.
The tragic story has continued to fascinate and horrify the public because of the stark contrast between Richins’ image as a grieving widow and children’s author — and the crimes prosecutors say were happening behind closed doors.
For many observers, the case now stands as one of the most disturbing true crime stories in recent years.
