
Ina Thea Kenoyer poisoned her partner after being drawn into the fantasy of a $30 million inheritance that never existed.
At a Glance
- Kenoyer sentenced to 25 years for murdering her boyfriend with antifreeze.
- Believed in fictitious $30 million inheritance, which motivated her actions.
- North Dakota does not recognize common-law marriage, invalidating her claim.
- Riley died from ethylene glycol poisoning on September 5, 2023.
The Crime and Sentencing
Ina Thea Kenoyer, aged 48, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after poisoning her partner, Steven Edward Riley Jr., by spiking his tea with antifreeze. The tragedy ensued from her belief in a fraud involving a $30 million inheritance, convincing Kenoyer to act in hopes of claiming a share as Riley’s common-law wife. However, common-law marriages hold no legal standing in North Dakota.
Riley was found unresponsive at home on September 5, 2023, after Kenoyer refused necessary medical assistance, claiming he suffered from heatstroke. The autopsy concluded ethylene glycol poisoning as the cause of death, with toxic concentrations detected in his bloodstream. Riley’s family and friends have been deeply affected by the incident, expressing anger and betrayal over Kenoyer’s actions.
Minot woman who fatally poisoned boyfriend for fake $30M inheritence sentenced https://t.co/zFvZZPytQt
— KX News (@KXMB) October 17, 2024
The Inheritance Scam
Kenoyer fell victim to a scam involving a non-existent $30 million inheritance, believing her participation in Riley’s life entitled her to the fortune. Authorities disclosed that Kenoyer was motivated by financial aspirations when they arrested her on October 30, 2023. This revelation sheds light on how such scams can manipulate and devastate individuals, leading to irreversible consequences.
“This must be a heinous person with no soul,” she said of Kenoyer, expressing the deep loss incurred.
The court proceedings highlighted Kenoyer’s previous discussions about using antifreeze to harm Riley, as reported by friends and family. Evidence recovered from the couple’s home included a glass beer mug and a plastic beer container holding traces of antifreeze. Throughout the trial, Kenoyer revealed the calculated nature of her actions, as she confessed to prosecutors.
Family’s Impact and Legal Outcome
During sentencing, family members expressed profound grief. “You stole more than a human life,” Riley’s sister, Stephanie Gonzalez, said. “How does it feel to have taken so much for absolutely nothing?” Gonzalez highlighted the monumental loss, emphasizing her brother’s role in their family and community. Kenoyer pleaded guilty to the charge of intentional murder as part of an agreement, leaving Riley’s family devastated by the loss of their loved one.
“I don’t think there’s anything more important than family,” Ryan Riley said, underscoring the emotional toll.
Kenoyer’s action ended in a tragedy that could have been avoided, were it not for the fatal lure of fictitious riches. This case stands as a somber reminder of the dangers of deceit and misguided ambitions, casting a lasting shadow over all involved.