A woman from Minot, North Dakota, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to poisoning her boyfriend with antifreeze, driven by the false belief that he would inherit $30 million. This tragic case has highlighted the devastating consequences of deception and greed.
Background of the Case
Ina Thea Kenoyer, 48, was sentenced to a total of 50 years, with the first 25 years mandated to be served in prison. Prosecutors revealed that Kenoyer poisoned her boyfriend, Stephen Riley, Jr., under the mistaken belief that a substantial inheritance awaited them. The couple had consulted with an estate lawyer on September 3, 2023, which led Kenoyer to believe that a multi-million-dollar inheritance was imminent.
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The Tragic Events Unfold
Just one day after their meeting with the lawyer, Riley fell seriously ill. Paramedics responded to a call at his home on September 4, only to find him unresponsive. Despite efforts to save him, he was declared dead on September 5, leaving family and friends in shock.
As investigators looked into the circumstances surrounding his death, they uncovered that the supposed inheritance likely never existed. Ryan Riley, the victim’s 21-year-old son, later disclosed to the media that both he and his father had fallen victim to an online scam, revealing that their hopes for sudden wealth were unfounded.
Heartfelt Impact on the Family
The loss has had a profound impact on Riley’s family. Stephanie Gonzalez, Riley’s sister, delivered an emotional statement during the court proceedings, expressing the deep void left by her brother’s death. “You stole my son from his mother and stepfather. You stole a father from five sons, a brother from two sisters, an uncle from 12 nieces and nephews, and a great uncle to eight, and many friends. How does it feel to have taken so much for absolutely nothing?” she said, illustrating the widespread devastation caused by Kenoyer’s actions.
In addition to her prison sentence, Kenoyer will also be required to pay restitution to Riley’s family, a further reminder of the irreversible harm her greed has caused.
